Head Of Training – Pharmaceutical Training Academy

Our well-established client in the pharmaceutical industry has a vacancy available for Head of Training to be based at the Parktown office.

Main Purpose of Job
Launching a world-class Training Academy as part of its commitment to developing future leaders within the organization.

The Head will be responsible for designing, implementing, and leading training programs that enhance leadership, technical expertise, and business acumen across the Group. This individual will play a critical role in aligning learning and development (L&D) initiatives with the company's growth strategy, ensuring employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive the company's global ambitions.

Key Performance Areas (Core, essential responsibilities – outputs of the position)

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership & Academy Development
   • Develop the vision, strategy, and roadmap for the Company's Training Academy, ensuring alignment with the group's business objectives.
   • Create structured learning pathways for employees at all levels, from entry-level staff to senior leadership.
   • Establish leadership development programs that prepare high-potential employees for key roles within Austell.
   • Drive Austell's philosophy of 75% internal promotions by building a robust talent pipeline.
   • Ensure the academy incorporates world-class training methodologies, including blended learning, e-learning, and experiential learning.
   • Stay ahead of industry trends to ensure training remains cutting-edge and aligned with global best practices.
2. Curriculum & Content Development
   • Develop and oversee the creation of training programs in areas such as:
   1. Leadership & Management Development
   2. Sales Excellence & Product Knowledge
   3. Innovation & R&D Leadership
   4. Global Business & Market Expansion
   5. Operational Efficiency & Kaizen Principles
   6. Pharmaceutical Compliance & Ethics
3. Partner with subject matter experts within Austell to design content that is practical and industry-relevant.
4. Introduce certification programs for key disciplines to formalize employee qualifications.
5. Training Execution & Delivery
   • Oversee the delivery of training programs, ensuring they are impactful and engaging.
   • Work closely with the company's leadership team and department heads to identify training needs.
   • Implement coaching and mentorship programs to reinforce formal learning.
   • Utilize technology and digital platforms (such as Smartsheet, Veeva) to enhance training effectiveness.
6. Performance Measurement & ROI
   • Develop metrics to assess the effectiveness of training programs.
   • Track employee progress, engagement, and career growth as a direct result of the academy's programs.
   • Continuously improve programs based on feedback and performance data.
7. Team Leadership & Collaboration
   • Build and lead a high-performing team of trainers, facilitators, and L&D professionals.
   • Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within Austell.
   • Collaborate with HR, Sales, R&D, and other key departments to ensure training is aligned with business needs.

Minimum Requirements

Key Qualifications & Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in Learning & Development, Leadership Development, or Corporate Training.
• Strong background in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or life sciences (preferred but not mandatory).
• Proven experience in designing and implementing leadership and talent development programs.
• Deep understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design, and coaching methodologies.
• Strong business acumen with experience in aligning L&D initiatives to company strategy.
• Experience in leading and managing training teams.
• Ability to leverage digital learning technologies and platforms for training delivery.

Key Skills & Attributes:

• Strategic thinker – Ability to align training programs with the company's long-term vision and global expansion goals.
• Innovative approach – Comfortable with new training technologies and methodologies.
• Strong leadership skills – Capable of building and leading a high-performing team.
• Results-driven – Ability to measure training impact and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Excellent communication & presentation skills – Able to engage employees across all levels.
• Passion for people development – Committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders.

Why Join The Company?

• Shape the future of the company's workforce by leading a world-class training initiative.
• Work in a fast-growing, innovative pharmaceutical company with global aspirations.
• Be part of a Kaizen-driven culture focused on continuous improvement.
• Direct impact on career growth – drive internal promotions and leadership development.

Please attach CV, qualifications, ID, and driver's license.