Head of Regional Training & Skills Development – London Probation

About the role

This senior position will establish and lead a brand‑new Regional Training and Skills Development Department for London Probation. Reporting to the Regional Probation Director and the Head of Operations for Learning and Development, you will shape the vision, governance and delivery of learning, coaching and practice support for probation staff across the region.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and embedding of the Regional Training and Skills Development Department in line with the approved regional model.
• Provide strategic leadership, governance and direction for a region‑wide development offer, ensuring consistency while responding to local learning needs.
• Oversee delivery of a structured learning programme, including classroom training, workshops, coaching, mentoring, action learning, reflective practice and practice‑based support.
• Manage talent‑management initiatives to support staff career development and potential.
• Plan and execute the phased rollout and expansion of the department’s services across the London region.
• Ensure quality, impact and measurable improvement in practice through robust assurance processes.
• Travel regularly across the region to support delivery, stakeholder engagement and practice embedding.

Required profile

• Significant senior leadership experience in workforce development or learning and development, preferably within the public or criminal‑justice sector.
• Proven ability to set up and lead a new department, establishing vision, processes and governance from inception.
• Strong strategic and operational leadership skills with a track record of delivering measurable improvements.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, able to work with senior officials and frontline staff.
• Willingness to travel regularly across the London region.

Required skills