National Training Manager

About the role

The National Training Manager provides strategic leadership and overall accountability for the Learning & Development function across the organisation, setting national strategy, ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering a culture of competency and safety.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and lead the national Learning & Development strategy for South Africa, aligned with the global framework and business objectives.
• Provide strategic leadership across Ground Handling, Cargo, VIP & Lounges to ensure consistent training standards.
• Ensure compliance with SACAA, ISAGO, IOSA, 8 Pillar, 5 Star, TETA, B‑BBEE and Employment Equity requirements.
• Take overall accountability for SACAA accreditation, training governance, audit readiness and regulatory compliance.
• Act as the Primary Skills Development Facilitator, overseeing WSP/ATR submissions, grant funding and skills‑development initiatives.
• Lead and develop the Learning & Development management team, building capability, succession and career progression.
• Oversee the national training calendar, delivering operational, regulatory, mandatory and airline‑specific training.
• Set and monitor national training KPIs, quality standards, competency and operational readiness.
• Own and manage the national training and skills‑development budget, driving cost efficiency, grant recovery and ROI.
• Maintain strong relationships with SACAA, TETA, operational leadership, HR, Risk and Employment Equity stakeholders.
• Represent South Africa Learning & Development at regional and global forums, promoting a strong learning, safety, competency and continuous improvement culture.

Required profile

• Relevant tertiary qualification in HR, Learning & Development or a related field.
• Postgraduate qualification preferred.
• ODETDP (NQF 5/6) certification.
• SDF accreditation.
• Extensive senior Learning & Development leadership experience, preferably within aviation or a highly regulated, safety‑critical environment.
• Proven experience leading multi‑site training teams through a management structure.
• Demonstrated experience with SACAA accreditation, SETA/WSP/ATR, B‑BBEE Skills Development and Employment Equity.
• Proven experience managing a significant training budget, including grant optimisation and ROI.