POSITION: Training Manager
REPORTING TO: Trade Marketing Senior Manager
LOCATION: NYC Metro, Hybrid
POSITION SUMMARY:
John Hardy is seeking a Training Manager to execute learning and development for our Wholesale & Retail teams. This role reports to theTrade Marketing Senior Manager. The Training Manager will design and deliver engaging, results-driven training that strengthens product expertise, elevates selling skills, and inspires brand storytelling, and stimulates sell-in and sell-thru. Training will be delivered primarily in-person, with some virtual sessions to support regional and global needs.
Through a train-the-trainer model, this role will also empower Account Executives and Field Leaders to deliver impactful education to retail partners ensuring a consistent, elevated John Hardy experience across all channels.
Success in this role requires creativity, strong facilitation skills, and the ability to connect strategy with meaningful learning experiences that drive performance and build lasting brand advocacy. The ideal candidate is dynamic, personable, and relationship-oriented, able to inspire and influence diverse audiences while representing the brand with professionalism and authenticity.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Design, develop, and deliver inspiring, brand-aligned training programs that empower Retail and Field Sales teams and Wholesale partners to deliver an exceptional luxury client experience.
- Create and maintain comprehensive product knowledge education that deepens understanding of craftsmanship, design inspiration, and collection storytelling, ensuring alignment with brand vision and business objectives.
- Lead the train-the-trainer program to equip Account Executives and Field Leaders with the tools, confidence, and delivery skills to train retail partners and store associates.
- Partner closely with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Merchandising, and Sales to ensure accuracy, consistency, and creative alignment across all training materials and experiences.
- Conduct learning needs analyses and leverage insights to identify development opportunities, refine training strategies, and drive measurable performance improvement.
- Support major Wholesale Events, Trunk Shows, pop-ups, anniversaries, activations, and regional events—including staff education, client experience coaching, and brand representation.
- Partner with Account Executives during events to provide in-person coaching on storytelling, selling behaviors, and merchandising standards.
- Innovate and implement modern, technology-enabled approaches to elevate the in-store learning experience, strengthen storytelling, and enhance sales effectiveness via “John Hardy University.”
- Facilitate engaging in-person and virtual training sessions focused on product features, visual presentation standards, and seasonal brand priorities.
- Provide personalized, hands-on coaching and feedback during boutique visits to reinforce selling skills, service standards, and brand consistency.
- Collaborate with Field Managers to assess training needs, prioritize development areas, and ensure seamless implementation of learning initiatives across territories.
- Evaluate training impact through performance metrics, client feedback, and field observations, adapting content to maintain relevance and excellence.
- Support major seasonal launches and brand activations through tailored learning experiences and presentations.
- Serve as a trusted ambassador and subject matter expert on luxury retail best practices, visual merchandising, and market trends.
- Champion the brand’s heritage and values by inspiring sales teams to create meaningful, emotionally engaging client interactions through storytelling and personalized service.
- Travel 60%+ throughout designated markets to deliver training, conduct boutique visits, and support key brand initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Retail Management, Education, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in Training, Retail Education, or Learning & Development within a customer-focused or luxury retail or sales environment.
• Proven ability to design, deliver, and manage innovative training programs that drive sales performance, team engagement, and elevated client experiences.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills—charismatic, confident, and able to command a room. Must inspire, motivate, and engage diverse audiences across multiple
locations, keeping momentum and delivering content that resonates and stays with the audience. (A live training presentation will be required as part of the interview process.)
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, foster relationships, and influence across teams and functions.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfortable working with digital learning tools.
• Able to build clear, realistic training calendars and timelines that ensure smooth execution across markets.
• Flexibility to travel 60%+, including occasional weekends or evenings during peak seasons.
