Learning & Development (L&D) Manager

Purpose of the Role

The Learning & Development (L&D) Manager, DGI, will lead the design, delivery and continuous improvement of technical and functional training programs across the International Division, with specific responsibility for the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region. This role will develop and implement learning strategies that build technical competence, operational excellence and compliance with Colas Rail standards. The role will also manage the Company’s training center and drive scalable, cost-effective learning solutions across diverse international contexts.

Key Areas of Responsibility & Accountability

• Strategy & Planning
  o Develop and implement an L&D strategy for the International Division aligned with Colas Rail’s business objectives and safety/quality standards
  o Design regional learning plans for the MEA region that respond to local business needs, regulatory requirements, and skills gaps
  o Set KPIs and metrics to measure training impact, competency development, and return on learning investment

• Technical Training Leadership
  o Lead design, development, and roll-out of technical training programmes
  o Ensure curricula reflect current standards, engineering practices, and Colas Rail technical specifications
  o Collaborate with subject matter experts, engineering leads and operations managers to convert tacit knowledge into structured training content

• Training Centre Management
  o Oversee day-to-day management of the training centre: scheduling, equipment, maintenance, health & safety, and compliance
  o Ensure training facilities and equipment are up-to-date, fit-for-purpose, and aligned to training needs
  o Manage third-party suppliers, contractors, and training accreditation where required

• MEA Regional L&D Ownership
  o Act as the L&D lead for the MEA region: assess needs, coordinate delivery, mentor regional L&D staff and liaise with country HR/Talent leads
  o Build localized training pathways and competency frameworks for MEA operations while ensuring alignment to Group standards
  o Support talent development initiatives: succession planning, technical career paths, onboarding and upskilling programmes

• Learning Delivery & Methods
  o Deliver and/or oversee blended learning approaches: classroom, on-the-job coaching, workshops, e-learning, simulations, and virtual instructor-led training
  o Promote transfer of learning into the workplace through coaching, assessment and performance support materials
  o Implement competency assessments and certification processes.

• Stakeholder Management & Collaboration
  o Partner closely with Project Directors, Operations, Engineering, Health & Safety, HR, and Group Talent Development to ensure training supports operational priorities
  o Communicate L&D plans and outcomes to regional and central stakeholders; maintain strong cross-cultural working relationships

  • Continuous Improvement & Compliance
  o Monitor training effectiveness and continuously improve programmes based on feedback, incident learnings, and industry developments.
  o Ensure all training activities comply with local laws, certification requirements and Colas Rail safety and quality policies.

  As you will expect the organisation may change from time to time and you will be expected to meet the operational requirements.

Core Competencies & Attributes

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Education, HR, Business or related field. Advanced qualification in Learning & Development, Instructional Design, or a technical discipline is preferred
• Minimum 6–8 years’ experience in technical training, L&D or competence management within rail, construction, heavy civil engineering or related industries — with at least 3 years in international/multi-country contexts.
• Proven experience managing a training center or similar technical training facility.
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver technical training programs and competency frameworks.
• Strong stakeholder management skills; experience working with project teams and engineering functions.
• People management experience, including coaching and developing trainers.
• Experience with blended learning technologies, LMS platforms, and assessment tools.
• Language Requirements : Fluent in English, French, and Arabic (written and verbal) — mandatory.

Core Competencies & Attributes

• Strong interpersonal, communication and facilitation skills across cultures.
• Technical literacy in rail engineering and operations, with ability to learn and translate technical content into effective learning.
• Results-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities across time zones.

Analytical and data-driven approach to measure learning impact.

• Flexibility to travel frequently across international and MEA sites.
• Commitment to safety, quality and compliance.

Travel & Working Conditions

• Frequent travel to project sites across the International Division and MEA region (up to 40%+ depending on business needs).
• Role may require occasional weekend or extended site stays.