Job Title:  HR Manager – Learning and Development
Location:  London (with occasional travel to Edinburgh)
Department: Human Resources
Reports To: The Senior Management Team/Board

About Us:
John McAslan and Partners is an architectural practice with a passion for creative design and improving people’s lives through architecture. With a head office in London and additional offices in Sydney and Edinburgh, plus an emerging presence in the Middle East, we are a growing, close-knit team of approximately 80 talented professionals. We are seeking an HR Manager – Learning and Development to support our diverse, international workforce. In this key leadership role, you’ll have the opportunity to shape our HR and learning strategies, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment across all locations.  This role will be carried out alone initially.

Position Overview:
As the Head of HR Learning and Development, you will have a unique opportunity to lead and evolve both HR and learning strategies across our offices in London, Sydney, and Edinburgh. You will be responsible for driving HR best practices, supporting employee engagement, and creating impactful development opportunities that enhance skills, foster career growth, and align with the evolving needs of the business. This role offers a chance to make a tangible impact on our workforce’s development, from onboarding and performance management to learning initiatives that support continuous growth.

You’ll work closely with leaders across all offices to ensure consistency in HR and learning strategies, while also tailoring initiatives to meet the specific needs of each office location. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing practice with a diverse, international team.

Key Responsibilities:

Human Resources Leadership:

• HR Strategy & Operations: Design and manage the full spectrum of HR functions for a global team, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and employee engagement. Ensure efficient, compliant HR operations across all locations.
• Employee Relations & Support: Serve as a trusted advisor to managers and staff, providing guidance on workplace issues, conflict resolution, and fostering a positive work environment. Actively engage with employees to create an open, transparent, and supportive culture.
• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Oversee recruitment strategies to attract top talent in all office locations. Develop innovative retention initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, growth, and long-term commitment to the firm.
• Performance Management: Manage performance evaluation systems, ensure clear career progression pathways. Promote a culture of recognition and continuous feedback.
• Global HR Compliance & Best Practices: Ensure HR policies and practices are compliant with UK, Australian, and Scottish regulations, and continuously assess and improve HR processes to align with global and local best practices.

Learning and Development Leadership:

• Learning Strategy: Create and develop a unified learning and development strategy that addresses the needs of the business while supporting employees’ personal and professional growth across all offices. Align learning initiatives with organizational goals and career development pathways.
• Training Programs: Design and oversee training programs that enhance technical skills, leadership abilities, and soft skills. Develop training that is both globally consistent and locally relevant to address the unique needs of each office.
• Employee Development: Identify skill gaps and opportunities for development at all levels. Develop and implement tailored training plans that promote career progression and internal mobility within the firm’s global workforce.
• Leadership Development: Establish leadership development programs that nurture future leaders from within the organization. Equip high-potential employees with the skills they need to succeed and drive the firm’s continued success.
• Metrics & Evaluation: Track the effectiveness of both HR and L&D initiatives using key performance indicators (KPIs) and feedback from employees and managers. Adjust programs and strategies based on evaluation results to ensure continuous improvement.

Experience

• Proven experience (7+ years) in HR, Learning and Development, or a related field.
• Experience working within international, creative, or design-focused industries, with a strong understanding of the architecture or built environment sectors.
• Strong knowledge of HR best practices, employee relations, compliance regulations, and performance management, with experience managing global teams.
• Expertise in learning and development methodologies, instructional design, and training delivery, with an ability to design programs that cater to different learning styles and locations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence, engage, and motivate employees at all levels across multiple locations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead both HR and L&D functions in alignment with business objectives, driving a culture of growth and excellence.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CIPD Level 5
• Familiarity with HR and employment laws in the UK and Scotland.
• Familiarity with HR and Employment laws in Australia and the middle east is not essential but would be advantageous
• A background in architecture, design, or creative industries is highly advantageous.

Why Join Us?
At John McAslan and Partners we believe that our people are our most valuable asset. With offices across three dynamic cities, we are a small but growing firm, and we place a strong emphasis on fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and empowering work environment. As the Head of HR Learning and Development, you will have the chance to shape the growth and development of our international team, influencing both individual career progression and the overall success of the practice.
We offer a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a creative environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Join us and help shape the future of our practice, both in the office and beyond.

Application Process:
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter to recruit@mcaslan.co.uk, detailing your experience and how you can contribute to the ongoing growth and success of John McAslan & Partners. We look forward to hearing how you can make a difference to our global team.