**Company description** Publicis Groupe is a global leader in communications. The Groupe is positioned at every step of the value chain, from consulting to execution, combining marketing transformation and digital business transformation. **Overview** **Job Purpose:** The Learning & Development Specialist is responsible for the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of impactful learning and development strategies and programs across Publicis Groupe Africa. This role is crucial in fostering a culture of continuous learning, enhancing employee capabilities, and supporting the strategic talent agenda of the organisation. The L&D Specialist will leverage expertise in modern learning methodologies, technology, and analytics to drive skill development, ensure compliance with local regulations (SETA), and champion a future-fit workforce. This specialist will act as the company's Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) and manage key relationships with internal stakeholders and external providers. **Key Responsibilities:** 1. Learning Strategy & Program Design: Conduct comprehensive learning needs analyses across various business units to identify skill gaps, emerging capabilities required, and development opportunities aligned with organisational goals. Design and develop innovative and engaging learning solutions, including blended learning programs, workshops, e-learning modules, mentorship programs, and on-the-job training initiatives. Curate and recommend external learning resources and partnerships that align with strategic development needs and budget considerations. Develop robust learning pathways and curricula for key talent segments and critical roles within Publicis Groupe Africa. Stay abreast of L&D best practices, emerging technologies, and industry trends to ensure Publicis Groupe Africa's learning offering remains cutting-edge and effective. 2. Program Implementation & Facilitation: Lead the end-to-end implementation of learning programs, ensuring seamless execution from planning to delivery, including scheduling, logistics, and resource allocation. Facilitate engaging training sessions and workshops for various employee levels, demonstrating strong presentation and group management skills. Oversee and optimise the utilisation of Publicis Groupe's global learning platforms, ensuring effective delivery of online programs and maximum employee engagement. Manage and maintain the Learning Management System (LMS) as a strategic tool for content delivery, course administration, user management, and robust reporting. Co-ordinate and manage relationships with external training providers and vendors, ensuring high-quality service delivery and value for money. 3. SETA Reporting, Skills Development & Compliance (SDF Duties): Act as the designated Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) for Publicis Groupe Africa, fulfilling all statutory responsibilities and obligations related to skills development. Lead the preparation and submission of accurate and timely Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) and Annual Training Reports (ATRs) to relevant SETAs. Manage and track all SETA-related grants and levies, ensuring compliance and maximising recovery for the organisation. Provide expert advice and guidance on SETA requirements, learnerships, apprenticeships, and other government-supported skills development initiatives. Ensure all learning activities comply with relevant South African labour laws and data privacy regulations (POPIA). 4. Evaluation, Reporting & Continuous Improvement: Establish robust evaluation methodologies (Kirkpatrick levels 1-4) to measure the effectiveness and impact of learning interventions on individual and organisational performance. Generate and present insightful L&D reports and analytics to the Chief People Officer and other key stakeholders, demonstrating ROI and identifying areas for strategic improvement. Analyse learning data and feedback to identify trends, pinpoint areas for program enhancement, and recommend future learning investments. Champion continuous improvement in all L&D processes and offerings, seeking innovative ways to enhance the learner experience and program outcomes. 5. Stakeholder Management & Collaboration: Build strong, collaborative relationships with HR Business Partners, Marketing & Communications, IT, and business leaders to understand their unique learning needs and integrate L&D initiatives with broader talent strategies. Partner with the Chief People Officer to translate organisational priorities into actionable L&D strategies. Communicate effectively and proactively with employees and managers regarding learning opportunities, programs, and policies. Key Interfaces: Internal: Chief People Officer, HR Business Partners, Senior Leadership Team, Department Heads, All Employees, Marketing & Communications, IT Department, Finance Team. External: Learning & Development Vendors, SETAs, Training Providers, Industry Associations, Regulatory Bodies. **Qualifications** Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Education, Organisational Development, Business Administration, or a related field. SDF accreditation is essential. Relevant certifications in L&D, instructional design, or adult learning principles are highly advantageous Experience: 5+ years of progressive experience in a dedicated Learning & Development role, with a strong emphasis on program design, implementation, and evaluation. Proven track record as a Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) with in-depth knowledge of SETA processes, WSP/ATR submissions, and grant management. Extensive experience working with and optimising Learning Management Systems (LMS) for content delivery, user management, and reporting. Demonstrated ability to conduct needs analyses, design effective learning solutions, and measure program impact. Experience in facilitating training sessions and workshops for diverse audiences. Strong understanding of adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies. Experience in a dynamic, fast-paced corporate environment, preferably within the advertising, media, or professional services industry. **Additional information** Skills & Competencies: Strategic L&D Thinking: Ability to connect L&D initiatives to business outcomes and contribute to the overall people strategy. Instructional Design & Curriculum Development: Expertise in designing engaging and effective learning content across various modalities. Facilitation & Presentation Skills: Dynamic and engaging delivery style with the ability to manage group dynamics effectively. Project Management: Excellent ability to lead and manage complex L&D projects from conception to completion, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met. Data Analytics & Reporting: Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret L&D metrics, demonstrate ROI, and present findings clearly. LMS Administration & Optimisation: Advanced proficiency in managing and leveraging LMS functionalities. SETA & Compliance Expertise: In-depth knowledge of South African skills development legislation and reporting requirements. Communication & Influencing: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external partners. Problem-Solving & Innovation: Proactive in identifying challenges and developing creative, effective learning solutions. Personal Attributes: Strategic and results-oriented, with a strong drive to deliver measurable impact. A passionate advocate for continuous learning and professional development. Highly collaborative and influential, with a knack for building rapport and trust. Proactive and self-motivated, demonstrating a high degree of initiative. Adaptable and resilient, thriving in a dynamic and evolving organisational landscape. Detail-oriented and highly organised, with meticulous attention to quality. Strong ethical compass and ability to maintain confidentiality.