Learning & Development Lead

We're making a difference: Together, we can ensure that there is enough water for everyone, now and in the future.
The Learning & Development Lead will manage the design, delivery, and evaluation of initiatives that strengthen capability, ensure compliance, and support Portsmouth Water's strategic priorities. The role will champion a culture of continuous learning, drive leadership development, and equip employees with the skills needed to meet the evolving demands of the water industry, from regulatory requirements and sustainability to innovation and customer service excellence.

To succeed, you'll bring strong business acumen, strategic thinking, and exceptional communication skills. Acting as a trusted partner and change agent, you will apply deep L&D expertise to influence and collaborate with leaders, creating innovative people-focused solutions that enhance business performance. This description outlines the core responsibilities of the role, with specific objectives to be agreed in response to changing business needs.

What will you be doing?
Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement a company-wide L&D strategy aligned with business goals and industry standards.

Partner with senior leaders to identify skills gaps and future capability needs.

Working closely with the People Business Partner to deliver leadership workshops.

Design and deliver blended learning programmes (e-learning, workshops, coaching, on-the-job training) tailored to operational, technical, and leadership roles.

Oversee the development of competency frameworks and career pathways.

Lead early careers initiatives including apprenticeships, work placements and graduates.

Ensure all mandatory and regulatory training (e.g. health & safety, environmental compliance, water quality standards) is delivered effectively and tracked.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations and ensure training content reflects current standards.

Collaborate with the Head of People to identify and develop high-potential talent.

Support succession planning through targeted development interventions.

Work closely with internal teams, external training providers, and industry bodies (e.g. Water UK, Water Skills, Energy & Utility Skills, CIWEM) to ensure high-quality learning experiences.

Oversee the Learning Management Systems (LMS) and ensure effective utilisation.

Monitor and report on L&D metrics, ROI, and impact on business performance.

What do you need?
Skills, Qualifications & Competencies
Proven experience in L&D leadership, ideally within a regulated or technical industry.

Strong understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design, and digital learning platforms.

Experience managing apprenticeships and early careers programmes.

Experience designing and delivering blended learning programmes.

Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Passion for sustainability and innovation in workforce development.

Ability to translate strategic goals into practical learning solutions.

Collaborative, proactive, and adaptable approach.

Ability to use coaching and mentoring skills to support leaders on solving complex people matters and implementing change.

Ability to apply a commercial approach and understanding aligned to meeting business needs.

Accredited to a minimum of CIPD Level 7 or equivalent experience in HR (with a L&D background).

We recognise people want to work in a variety of different ways
, and that's why we're happy to consider
flexible working arrangements
. Please feel free to talk to us at interview about the flexibility you may be looking for.

Please note, we may close this advert early if we receive a high volume of applications
so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

We're committed to equality, diversity and inclusion
, and we actively encourage applications from all sections of society.

Please be aware,
the Company has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are
eligible to live and work in the UK
.

Due to the high volume of applications we may receive
, we're unable to respond to every applicant individually. If your application is of interest, we'll usually be in touch
within 4 weeks
of receiving it.

What can Portsmouth Water offer you?
At Portsmouth Water, We Believe In Rewarding Our People. Here's Just a Taste Of What's Waiting For You When You Join The Team

Holidays Made Better
Enjoy
27 days of annual leave
,
plus bank holidays
, giving you plenty of time to relax, recharge, and explore.

A Pension That Works for You
We'll help secure your future with a
generous pension scheme
, contributing
up to 15%
because your tomorrow matters as much as your today.

Performance Pays Off
You could earn a
non-contractual bonus
of
up to 6% of your basic salary
, linked to company performance because when we succeed together, you should benefit too.

Family Comes First
Whether you're welcoming a new arrival through birth or adoption, we've got your back with
enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave and pay
.

Social Events
All expenses covered summer and winter social events

Peace of Mind, Always
Our
life assurance scheme
gives your loved ones extra security, with a
4x salary
lump sum benefit in case the unexpected happens.

Comprehensive Wellbeing Support
Whether you need
confidential mental health and wellbeing advice 24/7
through our Employee Assistance Programme, or
physical health support via our Virtual GP service
(available 8am10pm, 7 days a week for you and your immediate family), help is always close at hand with the
HealthHero
app.

Additional Support When You Need It
We know life has its ups and downs. That's why we offer
Private Medical Insurance - provided by Bupa
giving you access to expert healthcare and 24/7 confidential support.

PW Perks Treat Yourself
Enjoy exclusive
discounts at thousands of retailers
, plus exciting benefits like:

• Electric Vehicle Scheme (after 1 year)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Health Cash Plan and so much more