The Senior Specialist, Learning role is newly created reporting to the VP of Learning and Culture and will develop best in class learning solutions for our operations nationwide. They will work directly on instructional design projects that will enable improved user experience, shorten lead times to proficiency and enhance the performance of our operational leaders. This will include creating/managing content development, the updating of all training materials, programs and processes, and facilitating the development of online and live environment sessions.
Our ideal candidate has experience in both building and developing programs as well as maintaining training programs (content updates, program logistics, etc.) They will work collaboratively with a myriad of stakeholders to achieve a culture of learning throughout the organization. Ideally, this experience has been gained within a multi-unit environment in building and maintaining strong relationships; collaborating across different fields of expertise; and defining, developing and implementing learning project plans.
The successful candidate’s approach will be forward-thinking and systematic, balanced with the agility to adapt to changing conditions. Excellent communication skills are essential. This role will work virtually, home base would be considered the Vaughan, ON office and may require occasional travel. Exceptional project management, communication and collaboration skills will be essential for success in the role. This individual must thrive in a fast-paced environment and develop innovative solutions.
As a Learning and Development Specialist, your responsibilities will include:
Learning Experience And Design
- Design, develop, and implement innovative learning and development and talent programs aligned with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
- Partner with internal SMEs and stakeholders to design and develop engaging, inclusive learning experiences across various modalities (e-learning, virtual, instructor-led, OJT, etc.).
- Co-Lead the intake process for training projects, ensuring a thorough understanding of requirements and aligning resources and timelines to meet project and performance goals. Facilitate training sessions as required, engaging learners with your expertise and enthusiasm.
- Create mock-ups, scripts, or storyboards for various learning materials, including videos, e-learning modules, articles, job aids, and learning environments, to ensure a cohesive and effective learning experience.
- Use tools like Articulate, Captivate, and Adobe Creative Suite to create compelling content.
- Support program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts, using learner feedback and analytics to optimize outcomes.
Stakeholder Relationships & Engagement
- Act as a learning ambassador—providing excellent client service to internal learners and stakeholders.
- In partnership with Corporate Communications and stakeholder groups, support the drafting of communications and engagement initiatives to reinforce our learning culture and programs.
- Deliver work through effective partnership with our HR Business Partners and other Centers of Excellence (COEs) in HR to ensure alignment and maximize impact.
- Collaborate with client managers and key stakeholders to understand their needs and develop tailored learning solutions that align with organizational objectives.
- Champion learner engagement and adoption of learning systems and tools as a learning ambassador across the organization and cross functional teams.
Learning Systems & Program Coordination
- Support and manage the coordination and execution of various training projects, ranging from small workshops to large-scale initiatives, ensuring seamless operation and delivery.
- Support the implementation and maintenance of our learning management systems, contributing to efficient processes, systems transformations, and an enhanced user experience.
- Administer and support content creation, course building, and curriculum management in the LMS.
- Maintain the accuracy and functionality of digital learning systems, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with vendors as needed.
- Participate in drafting proposals and conducting evaluations for vendor selection, while monitoring vendor performance to ensure the highest quality outcomes.
- Organize logistics for learning events (e.g., scheduling, venues, catering, registration, communications).
- Manage documentation, post-program follow-ups, reporting, and CE certificate issuance for clinical programs.
- Provide data insights through regular reporting on program completion, engagement.
Capability & Continuous Improvements
- Help maintain and update program materials, ensuring alignment with brand standards.
- Drive process improvements in both digital and in-person learning program delivery.
- Liaise with cross-functional partners to ensure all learning initiatives are integrated and aligned with broader organizational goals.
- Track and report on training activities, using data to assess program effectiveness and inform continuous improvement efforts.
- Prepare and coordinate regular reports and analytics that highlight the impact of our L&D initiatives, guiding strategic planning and decision-making.
- Promote increased utilization of our learning programs and platforms, driving greater engagement and participation.
What We're Looking For
- Post-secondary education in Adult Learning, Education, Communications, Organizational Development, HR, Psychology, or a related field.
- 4+ years of combined experience in a learning design, HR or Operations’-based program management, training design/facilitation, training and development, and systems administration and reporting.
- Proficiency with eLearning authoring tools (Articulate Rise360, Adobe Captivate, etc.) and LMS platforms.
- Strong project management, coordination, and communication skills.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Proactive, service-oriented mindset and a passion for learner experience and success.
- Effective communication and consulting skills or Strong communications skills (listening, verbal, written, presentation preparation and delivery), including engaging with senior stakeholders.
- Strong vendor management skills, working closely with providers of technical learning.
- Experience with visual design, media tools (Photoshop, Canva) is an asset.
- Ability to problem solve, generate new ideas, create insights, and think creatively. Able to re-imagine work, processes, and topics with fresh thinking and bold vision.
- Detail-oriented, highly organized, reliable, self-motivated, and multitasking abilities.
- Adaptable, with a continuous improvement mindset and ability to work in a new and changing environment and learn quickly.
- Demonstrated ability and confidence working with technology and learning new software.
- Bilingualism (French and English) is a strong asset.