Director, Learning & Development

CityIrvineStateCaliforniaJob LocationIrvine Regional Office (Derian)Position TypeRegular

The Director of Learning & Development is a senior-level HR professional responsible for designing, developing, and delivering learning and development programs that align with the company’s strategic goals. This role will lead the L&D team, manage budgets, and ensure learning programs enhance associate skills, knowledge, and performance.  

Based in Orange County, CA, the Directory of L&D will partner with corporate leaders, functional leaders, and external vendors to identify and deliver relevant learning and development needs across the organization.  From onboarding to technical training to leadership development, this team is positioned to equip associates, managers, and leaders to deliver results that bring company success.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

Strategy Development

• Develop and execute L&D strategies that support Essex’s business objectives.
• Establish strong relationships with senior leaders so that our learning solutions are driving business results.

Program Design & Implementation

• Design and implement various learning programs including onboarding, technical skills training, and leadership development.
• Leverage blended learning methodologies including e-learning modules, in-person and virtual workshops, coaching, and on-the-job experiences.
• Conduct regular assessments that identify learning needs to ensure programs are relevant and effective while providing ROI to senior leadership.
• Oversee Workday Learning, our LMS, including administration and reporting.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and manage the L&D team, fostering a high-performance environment.
• Partner with the Talent & Culture team so that we provide an associate experience that equips, engages, and retains our talent.  

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, organizational development, education, or related field. Master’s degree preferred, though not required.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in L&D, with 3+ years in a leadership role managing L&D professionals.
• Deep expertise in building and scaling enterprise-wide learning programs in support of geographically dispersed, field-based teams (1,500+ employees).
• Strong knowledge of L&D best practices with up-to-date knowledge of current trends and learning methodologies.
• Business acumen with an understanding of business operations and strategic planning to align L&D with the organization.  
• Leadership and management skills with an ability to lead, motivate, influence, and manage a team of professionals in an ever-changing environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and consultative skills to partner with and influence various stakeholders.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to identify gaps and develop effective solutions.
• Instructional design skills to design, develop, and deliver effective and impactful learning programs.
• Project management skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to operate in an ambiguous, constantly changing environment.  
• Creativity, energy, perseverance, and passion to help individuals and the organization succeed.
• Proficiency in Microsoft suite and Workday Learning.

WHAT THE JOB REQUIRES:

• Work is primarily conducted in an office setting. Requires sitting at a desk or workstation for extended periods. Involves the use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and printers.
• Requires the ability to work Monday through Friday.
• Requires the ability to sit or stand for extended periods. Minimal physical effort in the day-to-day tasks.
• Minimal travel may be required for occasional meetings, training, or conferences.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TABLE:

• Ability to lead by example and model behaviors consistent with the company's values.
• Lead with a substantial impact on the organization. Effectively communicate and collaborate at a strategic level, contributing to organizational success. Skillful in managing by influence in complex organizational settings.
• Decision-making with in-depth understanding and interpretation of procedures, company policies and business practices to achieve general results. Responsible for setting department deadlines.

#LI-Hybrid#LI-AS1All full-time regular associates are offered competitive salaries, experience career growth, and are eligible for benefit packages that include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 401k employer match, excellence rewards, wellness programs, and much more. With our Sunday property operations office closures, 10 paid holidays, and 15 PTO days, work/life balance is a priority! Additionally, most positions are eligible for a housing discount of 20%.

Essex provides great communities in which to live, work and invest. We are a purpose-driven company, and we pride ourselves on promoting an internal culture of growth and opportunity by engaging, enabling, and empowering our teams. Working at Essex is not a destination. It is a journey where you can confidently build your career.

The salary range for this position is $138,000.00 - $207,000.00 per year. New hires generally start between $138,000.00 - $172,000.00 per year. The final salary offer will be determined after reviewing relevant factors, including but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience; internal equity; and other business and organizational needs.

This role is also eligible to participate in Essex’s discretionary Annual Bonus program that is commensurate with the level of the position.