Learning & Development Specialist

Job Overview The Learning & Development Specialist leads the delivery and execution of learning experiences focused on our results-oriented, people-focused culture that supports the development of operations leaders across all Darden brands as well as the Restaurant Support Center (RSC) team. The position is responsible for having a thorough understanding of all subject matter being taught, linking content to restaurant operations (where appropriate), and attainment of instructional objectives and classroom management. It also supports the needs analysis, design, development, and implementation of enterprise learning experiences across operations and the RSC.

Role And Responsibilities

• Facilitates leadership development programs for Operations and RSC team members, including Manager in Training (MIT), General Manager/Managing Partner (GM/MP), Director of Operations/Area Supervisor (DO/AS), Nourish to Flourish, Leading People at Darden (LPD), and other development experiences.
• Serve as a point of contact for class participants before, during, and after the learning experiences
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with operational and training leaders of assigned brands in order to develop a deep understanding of culture, strategic priorities, operational initiatives, leadership expectations, and business goals
• Partner collaboratively with RSC, Brand Training teams, and subject matter experts (SMEs) to-analyze learning needs and support the design, development, maintenance, facilitation, and continuous improvement of enterprise, RSC, and brand-specific learning experiences, ensuring content/materials are engaging, operationally relevant, and aligned with business strategies and our 5 Winning Behaviors.
• Learn, certify, and facilitate externally licensed learning & development experiences as requested/needed.
• Review training evaluations and participant feedback to analyze the effectiveness of training, identify strengths and opportunities, and make recommendations that will positively impact the learning experience

Facilitates feedback sessions to high performing GMs/MPs that are selected as Operations Partners for the GM/MP Leadership class

• Proactively stay abreast of learning and development trends and best practices and apply relevant insights to learning experiences.

Required Technical Skills

• Minimum 3 years training or related experience
• Excellent classroom facilitation skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in education, educational technology, human resources or related field OR relevant job experience

Other Key Qualifications

• Restaurant management experience
• Excellent analysis, problem solving, and decision making skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects on time
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with all levels in the organization
• Detail-oriented and organized, with proven ability to establish priorities and achieve results
• Strong customer/client service orientation
• Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to anticipate needs and potential issues before they occur
• Ability to think creatively, seeks innovative solutions and use change as a positive and motivating factor

Preferred Skills And Experience

• GM/MP experience
• Knowledge of instructional design principles, practices, and theories
• Knowledge of adult learning theory to identify appropriate training methodologies based on participant learning styles and experiences
• Additional human resources experience (e.g., employee relations, staffing, etc.)

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