1. SCOPE OF ROLE:  

Services for the Underserved (S:US) has an exciting opportunity for a Director of Learning & Development who will oversee and elevate the organization’s training and development programs to support the growth needs of the organization as well as our employees.   This strategic and hands-on role will foster a culture of continuous learning, equity, and innovation through modern technologies, including AI-driven personalization, gamification, and digital platforms to support S:US business strategy. 

Reporting to the Chief Human Resources and People Officer, the Director will lead a small team, will take the lead on creating, implementing, and continuously improving Learning & Development programs and spearhead the creation of a Training Institute for S:US. The ideal candidate is passionate about social impact and understands the unique challenges and opportunities within human services environments. 

2. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Strategic Planning 

• Develop and implement a forward-thinking L&D strategy aligned with S:US’s mission of social equity and community empowerment.
• Champion the use of AI and data analytics to personalize learning pathways and measure impact.
• Integrate trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices into all learning initiatives.
• Build and scale the S:US Training Institute, ensuring delivery of high-quality, evidence-based training across all departments.

Program Development

• Design and implement engaging, evidence-based training programs using internal subject matter experts and external resources.
• Conduct ongoing learning needs assessments to identify skill gaps and align development with organizational goals.
• Create custom and off-the-shelf training solutions for hybrid learning environments.
• Leverage technology and process improvements to streamline L&D operations.
• Ensure accessibility, inclusivity, and relevance in all learning formats.

Technology-Enhanced Learning

• Lead the adoption of gamification strategies to increase engagement and retention in training programs.
• Oversee the implementation and optimization of learning management systems (LMS), mobile learning apps, for staff.
• Collaborate with IT and data teams to ensure secure and ethical use of AI in learning.

Team & Stakeholder Engagement

• Supervise a small team, including a Trainer and Administrative Assistant.
• Partner with program leaders to ensure L&D initiatives support business priorities and service excellence.

Evaluation & Impact

• Use AI-powered analytics to track learning outcomes, behavioral change, and organizational impact.
• Report on KPIs such as training completion rates, learner satisfaction, and performance improvement.
• Continuously refine programs based on feedback and data insights.

3. KEY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS 

• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with team members and staff across the organization  

• Integrity & Accountability:  Uphold personal and professional ethics and values, considering the values of the organization and respecting the culture, beliefs and abilities of individuals we serve 

• Critical Evaluation:  Ability to generate ideas for service improvement for discussion within multidisciplinary teams and with staff and their supervisors. 

• Teamwork: Ability to work in a team-oriented environment and contribute to the organization’s overall progress. 

• Self-Motivated: Ability to demonstrate initiative and endeavor to respond to changing needs of stakeholders. 

• Change Management: Ability to develop a learning and engagement plan in line with the organization’s vision, mission and core values. 

• Engagement: Ability to engage staff to understand their needs related to professional development and wellness. 

• Critical Evaluation: Ability to generate ideas to improve staff learning and engagement, to make suggestions and collaborate with colleagues from other departments and divisions 

4. REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE  

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education, Organizational Development, Social Work, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in Learning & Development, ideally in the social services, nonprofits, or public sector.
• Strong expertise in adult learning theory, recovery-oriented care, and psychiatric rehabilitation, with a commitment to social justice
• Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS), adaptive learning technologies, and gamification tools

PREFERRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE: