The Learning and Development Manager contributes to Denny’s success by developing and managing learning and development (L&D) programs and initiatives for management level team members. The L&D Manager uses learning theory and technical knowledge to create an educational experience for learners that successfully teaches them new information or improves their skill level.

The design process includes assessing learner needs and styles, defining learning objectives, creating the learning environment and content materials, implementing the training and evaluating the effectiveness of the curriculum. This role consults with the business experts to identify learning needs and to develop and maintain global learning solutions that build functional capability and meet business objectives.

This position partner closely with operations support, company operations and franchise operations leaders, as well as franchisees, to ensure a “one brand” focus and alignment of priorities and goals among all stakeholders. Key cross-functional partners include Marketing, Product Development, Finance, Communications, Company Operations, Franchise Operations, and Franchisees.

Essential Functions (Key Responsibilities)

• Consults with business leaders and stakeholders to establish learning and development priorities that drive business and people strategies and create tangible business value.
• Continuously learns about internal and external factors that impact learning and performance in organizations; remains aware of trends and anticipates opportunities to add value to the business.
• Conducts ongoing learning needs assessments to identify performance gaps and determine the requirements for either the revision of existing learning and development programs or the development of new learning and development materials. Ensures alignment between enterprise L&D strategies and business unit-specific strategy.
• Uses knowledge of the company’s business model and strategic goals; uses financial and organizational data to build and document the business case for investing in learning and development solutions.
• Actively seeks ways to increase collaboration across multiple stakeholders; facilitates the connection of the right people, the right ideas and solutions at the right time.
• Establishes and refines learning performance metrics that support the business unit’s strategic direction; analyzes the effectiveness of existing learning; partners with analytics consultants and business reporting analysts to interpret analyses/metrics. Proactively and regularly communicates to cross-functional teams and business leaders to influence decision making and further business success.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams, stakeholders and leaders across levels to establish plans, systems, processes, procedures and requirements and build capability (e.g. TTT) to test and implement key priorities for the learning organization.
• Develops and manages enterprise-wide (L&D) programs and initiatives, including the development of curricula and processes for the onboarding and training of all crew positions.
• Develops and manages enterprise-wide (L&D) programs and initiatives, including the development of curricula and processes for the onboarding and training of new Managers (Culinary and Hospitality), new General Managers, new District Managers, new Franchise Business Leaders, and new Coaches.
• Creates, develops, and implements progressive, High Potential program(s) for hourly level and management level team members.
• Develops both classroom and on the job programs to enhance functional expertise and brand knowledge/ operational skills of all hourly level team members.
• Develops both classroom and on the job programs to enhance leadership and operational skills of management level.
• Drives the development of innovative and interactive learning solutions that engage our learners and support a culture of sharing and fun.
• Leverages contemporary interactive technologies to engage and enhance learning, including eLearning tools (MS Office, Articulate Studio ’09, Articulate Storyline2, and other authoring tools), design tools (Adobe CS6) and collaboration platforms (LMS, blogs, Social websites wikis).
• Develops eLearning programs that include multiple modalities: self-paced e-learning, virtual and face to face workshops and on the job learning activities.
• Designs and develops dynamic instructional interactions and simulations to create interactive, engaging course content, simulations for software, tools etc.
• Drives enterprise wide Hospitality Initiatives – collaborates with Consumer Insights and Ops teams to solicit feedback and ensure programs are relevant and on target.
• Prepares training materials to support all new product rollouts.
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience Requirements

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

5 years’ experience in instructional design and research-based curriculum development. Experience in utilizing technology (computer-based instruction, e-learning, etc.) for learning. Demonstrated experience utilizing MS Office Suite, WebEx, presentation software such as Zoom, advanced skills in Word and PowerPoint and familiarity with web-based teaching and learning.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Mastery of oral, written, presentation and facilitation skills. Strong public speaking skills with the ability to engage learners throughout trainings and learning opportunities.
• Ability to design, develop and deliver functional skills training aligned with business goals and initiatives to drive results in a performance-based learning culture. Knowledge of instructional design methodologies and various delivery methods.
• Ability to function independently and as part of a team with a positive attitude, strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
• Ability to recognize performance improvement opportunities and gaps and clearly identify and articulate options and tools available to help drive desired behavior. Ability to apply knowledge of multidisciplinary business principles and practices to achieve successful outcomes in cross-functional projects and activities.
• Licensed to operate an automobile without hours of operations restrictions. Ability to travel frequently (up to 40%), including overnight stays and airline travel when applicable.
• Strong planning and organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage changing priorities, handle multiple projects, meet deadlines and adapt to a changing business environment.