What Is a Learning and Development Program Manager and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As a learning and development program manager, you design and develop learning programs for an organization. Your responsibilities are to coordinate programs that enhance the capabilities of employees through continued education and skills training. You may implement these strategies through in-person classes, educational materials, or a combination of the two. Throughout employee training, you also evaluate the effectiveness of your plan and make adjustments as necessary. Other duties include utilizing available resources, teaching training methods to instructors, and staying within the company’s budget. Your overall goal is to boost productivity for your organization by creating more knowledgeable and capable employees.

Education and experience are the primary qualifications for a learning and development program manager. You need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration or an education-related field. Some employers require you to have a master’s degree for a manager position. Previous management or education experience is vital to this position. Program managers should have prior training in human resources, teaching, and management. Communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills are essential to this job. Leadership and interpersonal skills are also crucial. Certification and licensure are not necessary, but you may want to pursue specialty certifications to increase your employability.