Learning & Development Manager

About Universal Store

Originating as a small suburban unisex clothing shop in 1999, Universal Store has expanded to over 100 locations across the nation and now serves customers globally via its thriving online platform. The company offers a thoughtfully curated selection of local and international brands, crafting exclusive collections that provide comprehensive outfitting options for diverse occasions. Recognized as a leading youth fashion retailer in Australia, Universal Store encompasses brands such as Neovision, Common Need, Luck & Trouble, and Worship, and partners with notable global brands like Lee, Wrangler, AS Colour, Calvin Klein, Stussy, and Abrand. Recent expansions include adding Perfect Stranger and Thrills Co to its brand lineup, further enhancing its diverse offerings.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate Learning & Development Manager to join our People team at the Support Office in Eagle Farm. Reporting directly to the General Manager - People, this pivotal role is responsible for shaping and advancing the learning and growth framework within the UNI Group, including Retail stores, the Distribution Centre, and Support Office environments. The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker and innovator, focused on developing impactful learning solutions that build skills, enhance leadership, and nurture career progression across the organization, particularly engaging a predominantly Gen Z workforce.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the group's Learning & Development strategy across retail, distribution, and support settings.
• Create and implement influential leadership programs and capability frameworks that promote career advancement.
• Collaborate with business leaders to identify development needs and deliver effective learning interventions that boost performance.
• Design onboarding and ongoing development experiences that equip employees for success from their first day.
• Lead and mentor the E-Learning Specialist to drive evolution of the digital learning ecosystem.
• Facilitate workshops, coaching, and interactive sessions to activate learning at all organizational levels.
• Innovate by integrating AI technologies, microlearning, and gamification to engage a young workforce.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning by ensuring development opportunities are accessible, relevant, and engaging.
• Utilize data and feedback to assess training impact and continuously enhance learning outcomes.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships within the business to align learning initiatives with organizational growth goals.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience as a Learning & Development Manager, Senior Learning Specialist, or similar role.
• Possesses tertiary qualifications in Learning & Development, Education, Human Resources, or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience in retail, hospitality, logistics, or managing multi-site environments is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated success in designing and delivering leadership development programs.
• Previous experience in leading teams with capability to coach and develop staff.
• Competence in building capability frameworks and learning pathways.
• Strong skills in facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and communication.
• Proficient in managing LMS platforms, e-learning content, and digital learning projects.
• Skilled in employing AI-driven learning technologies to elevate educational outcomes.
• Excellent project management and organizational capabilities.
• Familiarity with Dayforce, Absorb, or comparable HRIS/LMS systems is an advantage.

Benefits and Workplace Culture

• A dynamic, inclusive work environment led by a supportive and growth-focused leadership team.
• Access to exclusive staff discounts across multiple brands and partner offerings.
• Convenient free parking and top-tier facilities at the Eagle Farm Support Office.
• Opportunities for professional growth through learning and development programs.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements offered, including work-from-home options.
• Salary packaging and novated leasing benefits available.
• Company-supported parental leave.
• Comprehensive wellbeing initiatives, including access to Sonder support and wellness activities.
• Regular social events that foster team building and engagement.

Our Values

• Care for Everyone
• Here to Help
• Make it Work
• Better Than Good
• Contribute