Learning and Development Specialist

About the Al Qasimi Foundation

The Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research (AQF) is a leading philanthropic and research-based foundation headquartered in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The Foundation supports the social, educational, cultural, and economic development of Ras Al Khaimah and the wider UAE through research, policy engagement, capacity development, and community programming.

Through its initiatives, the Foundation works in close collaboration with government entities, academic institutions, and community stakeholders to design and deliver evidence-based programs that strengthen human capital, enhance employability, and drive sustainable social impact.

Position Overview

The Learning & Development Specialist will be responsible for the design, delivery, and continuous enhancement of the Foundation’s learning, employability, and community development programs. Under the guidance of Learning & Development Manager and senior leadership, the role will oversee the full lifecycle of learning initiatives, from needs assessment and program design to implementation, evaluation, and impact measurement, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and measurable outcomes. The Learning & Development Specialist will play a critical role in strengthening program quality, stakeholder engagement, and operational effectiveness, while ensuring that all initiatives are responsive to evolving workforce needs and community priorities.

Success in this role requires a balance of strategic program thinking, operational execution, and stakeholder engagement, within a dynamic, multi-stakeholder institutional environment.

Key Responsibilities

Learning Strategy and Program Leadership

• Lead the design and implementation of learning and development programs aligned with the Foundation’s strategic priorities.
• Translate institutional objectives into structured learning initiatives with clear outcomes and impact measures.
• Establish program frameworks, participant journeys, and engagement models to ensure quality and consistency.
• Continuously assess program relevance in relation to labour market trends and community needs.

Program Management and Delivery Oversight

• Oversee the full lifecycle of programs, including planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and within approved budgets.
• Identify operational risks and ensure timely mitigation to maintain program continuity.
• Maintain high standards of delivery across all initiatives and ensure a strong participant experience.

Stakeholder and Partnership Engagement

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with government entities, employers, academic institutions, and training providers.
• Align program design and delivery with stakeholder expectations and workforce requirements.
• Represent the Foundation in meetings, partnerships, and external engagements related to learning and development initiatives.
• Ensure effective stakeholder communication and engagement throughout program lifecycles.

Vendor and Service Provider Management

• Oversee the identification, onboarding, and management of training providers and service vendors.
• Lead procurement processes including PRs, contracts, and vendor onboarding in coordination with internal departments.
• Ensure vendor performance meets agreed quality standards and deliverables.
• Support cost optimization and value-for-money approaches in program delivery.

Content Development and Learning Design

• Guide the development of training content, workshops, and learning materials aligned with program objectives.
• Conduct needs assessments to identify priority skills and learning gaps.
• Ensure content reflects current best practices, industry trends, and stakeholder requirements.
• Develop structured participant tools, guidelines, and program documentation.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Impact Measurement

• Define KPIs and performance indicators for all learning initiatives.
• Design and implement evaluation frameworks, including participant feedback and outcome tracking.
• Monitor program performance and generate insights to inform continuous improvement.
• Prepare structured reports and updates for senior leadership.

Operational Oversight and Governance

• Manage program budgets and ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Maintain accurate records, trackers, and reporting systems across all initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, procedures, and governance requirements.
• Coordinate with Finance, HR, and Procurement teams to support program operations.

Internal Learning and Capacity Development

• Support internal learning and development initiatives across the Foundation.
• Identify internal capability gaps and coordinate relevant training interventions.
• Maintain systems and processes for tracking internal training activities and outcomes.

Candidate Profile

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in learning & development, program management, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience in managing multi-stakeholder programs and partnerships.
• Experience within non-profit, education, or public sector environments is preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive, tax-free salary.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Value-driven organizational culture.