The training manager, also known as a learning and development (L&D) manager, is an essential role in the organization. He or she may work across many departments and with many stakeholders to ensure that the training developed by the organization meets the needs of each function and is aligned with the goals of the business. In addition to the leadership competencies needed by managers in any department, such as integrity, project management, change management and business acumen, several additional competencies are required to manage the training function successfully. 

Job Prospects and Typical Qualifications 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of training and development managers is expected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations, due to the continuous need for upskilling across industries. There were 42,100 training manager job openings in 2020, and the BLS expects 46,600 in 2030. The BLS also reports the median average salary for training and development managers to be $120,130 in 2021. 

Training managers usually have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field such as human resources, education or business administration. Many hiring managers, notes the BLS, prefer or require a master’s degree with a concentration in training and development, human resources management, organizational development, or business administration. Other areas of study include instructional design and psychology. 

Many training managers begin their careers as training specialists, trainers or HR specialists. Others come from other functions in their industry; for example, sales training managers sometimes began their careers as sales reps. 

Certifications are often required or preferred for training managers. For example, the Certified Professional in Training Management™ is the only certification program developed specifically for training managers. 

Sample Job Posting for a Training Manager

We are seeking an experienced training manager to lead our learning and development strategy, manage its implementation and measure its impact. A successful candidate will be passionate about learning and excited about the prospect of leading by example. Responsibilities include: 

• Ensuring strategic alignment of the training department with business goals 
• Evaluating individual and organizational performance to ensure training is meeting business needs and improving performance 
• Identifying training needs by consulting with stakeholders and using needs assessments 
• Developing and delivering training solutions that meet business needs 
• Optimizing training processes for efficiency 
• Selecting and managing resources, including working with both internal employees and training vendors to develop and deliver training 
• Managing the technologies and technical personnel required to develop, manage and deliver training 

Requirements: 

• Knowledge of learning and development best practices 
• A proven track record of training program development and management 
• Excellent leadership skills 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills 
• At least a bachelor’s degree in education, human resources or a related discipline 
• Professional certification, such as CPTM, is preferred 

Complete the form below to download a template for a training manager job posting.