Director of Learning & DevelopmentThe Director of Learning & Development is responsible for building and leading Ryan Fireprotection's learning function from the ground up. This role will establish the strategy, structure, and systems needed to develop employee capability across all levels of the organization.
This position moves beyond traditional training by designing a modern, performance-driven learning environment that supports business growth, safety, and operational excellence. The Director of Learning & Development will create scalable, digital-first learning solutions that ensure employees have access to the right knowledge, at the right time, in the flow of their work.
Working across technical, operational, and corporate functions, this role will align learning initiatives with company priorities, supporting employee development, improving performance, and enabling long-term organizational success.
Key ResponsibilitiesLearning Strategy & Function Development- Build and lead Ryan Fireprotection's Learning & Development function, establishing structure, processes, and long-term strategy
- Develop a 12-24 month learning roadmap aligned with company growth, operational needs, and workforce development goals
- Create scalable learning systems that support both field and office employees
- Establish standards for content development, delivery, and continuous improvement
Performance-Based Learning Design- Design learning solutions that support real-world performance, not just course completion
- Develop blended learning approaches including on-the-job training, digital learning, and instructor-led programs
- Identify skill gaps using performance data and implement targeted learning solutions
- Ensure learning programs support safety, compliance, productivity, and quality standards
Digital Learning & AI Integration- Implement modern learning technologies and tools to support scalable, efficient learning delivery
- Integrate AI-enabled tools to support content development, knowledge access, and performance support
- Ensure learning resources are easily accessible within the flow of work
- Continuously evaluate and improve the learning technology ecosystem
Team Leadership & Development- Build, lead, and develop a high-performing Learning & Development team
- Provide coaching, direction, and development opportunities for internal team members and external partners
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability
- Define roles, responsibilities, and growth paths within the L&D function
Stakeholder Partnership & Business Alignment- Partner with leadership across operations, sales, service, engineering, and corporate functions to identify learning needs
- Translate business challenges into actionable learning strategies and solutions
- Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on workforce capability and development
- Support change initiatives, system rollouts, and process improvements through targeted learning efforts
Measurement & Continuous Improvement- Establish clear metrics to evaluate learning effectiveness based on business outcomes, not participation
- Monitor and report on the impact of learning initiatives on performance, safety, and productivity
- Ensure learning programs are consistent, scalable, and sustainable across all locations
- Maintain compliance with regulatory, safety, and certification requirements where applicable
Qualifications- 10+ years of experience in Learning & Development, Organizational Development, or a related field
- Proven experience building or scaling learning programs within a growing organization
- Experience leading and developing a team
- Strong understanding of performance-based learning and instructional design principles
- Experience implementing digital learning platforms and modern learning technologies
- Ability to align learning initiatives with business and operational goals
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Preferred Experience- Experience in construction, engineering, manufacturing, or skilled trades environments
- Familiarity with safety training standards and compliance-driven learning programs
- Experience working in multi-location or rapidly growing organizations
- Exposure to AI-enabled learning tools or modern digital learning strategies
Requirements- Candidates must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. The ability to drive to job sites / work locations may be a requirement of this position. A motor vehicle record (MVR) check will be conducted as part of the hiring process.
