Learning Strategy and Implementation Senior Manager

Job Description:

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Learning Strategy & Implementation Senior Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for architecting, shaping and executing the future of learning and development at Portillo's. This leader will lead cross-functional efforts to design, build and scale learning experiences that accelerate performance, develop talent and support business transformation. The Senior Manager will develop and drive cutting-edge learning strategies, oversee the creation of compelling educational experiences, and implement innovative learning technologies and solutions. This position is a key thought partner, requires a unique blend of strategic vision and tactical execution, comfort building programs from the ground up, and the ability to connect business goals to impactful learning initiatives that drive performance and engagement across the organization.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Enable our Purpose to create lifelong memories by igniting the senses with unrivaled food and experiences: 

Family: Work together to make everyone feel at home, and we step up when someone needs help

• Build strong, collaborative relationships with business leaders, People partners, and subject matter experts across the organization to understand needs and ensure learning solutions are relevant and embraced.

• Fosters a culture of continuous learning and development where team members feel supported and take ownership of their growth.

• Champion co-ownership of learning initiatives between L&D and business units, ensuring alignment and shared responsibility for success.

• Influences and consults with stakeholders to understand challenges and provide learning-based solutions and support.

Greatness: We’re obsessed with being the best and work hard to continuously improve. Our greatness is rooted in Quality, Service, Attitude and Cleanliness

• Partner with VP of Learning & Development and Learning & Development team to design, develop, and implement a comprehensive learning and development strategy aligned with Portillo’s overall business objectives and talent needs.

• Lead thorough needs assessments and skill gap analyses to identify key capabilities required for organizational success.

• Establish metrics and KPIs to measure the effectiveness, ROI, and business impact of learning programs, using data to drive continuous improvement.

• Oversee the design and development of high-quality, evidence-based learning journeys using a blend of methodologies (digital, instructor-led, social, on-the-job).

• Stay abreast of L&D best practices, emerging technologies, and adult learning principles to ensure Portillo’s L&D initiatives are best-in-class.

Energy: We move with urgency and passion, while maintaining attention to detail

• Lead the execution and implementation of key L&D strategic initiatives and projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.

• Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and resource allocation strategies for learning programs and technology rollouts.

• Drive the selection and implementation of learning technologies to enhance the learner experience and program delivery.

• Oversee and manage pilot programs effectively and scale successful initiatives across the organization efficiently.

• Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with L&D projects and implementations.

• Accountable for budget planning and resource allocation across responsible learning initiatives.

Fun: We entertain our guests, we connect authentically, and we make each other smile

• Lead and create engaging, accessible, and enjoyable learning experiences that resonate with Portillo’s unique culture.

• Work cross-functionally to leverage technology and innovative design to make learning interactive, social, and motivating.

• Develop communication strategies to promote learning opportunities and celebrate successes, making learning visible and exciting.

• Ensure learning solutions cater to diverse learning styles and preferences, making development accessible to all team members.

ORGANIZATION RELATIONSHIPS

• Reports directly to the VP of Learning & Development.

• Works closely and collaboratively with Learning & Development team, People Business Partners, Operations Leaders, IT, Marketing, Restaurant Support Center Department Heads, and field leadership.

• Manages relationships with external L&D vendors and technology partners as needed.

• Builds sustainable relationships across all levels of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

Educational Level/Certifications

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Organizational Development, Instructional Design, or a related field required.
 

Work Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Minimum of 5+ years (prefer 7+ years) of progressive experience in Learning & Development, with a proven track record in setting learning strategy and designing/implementing L&D programs.

• Demonstrated experience in assessing the financial ROI and business impact of learning and development initiatives.

• Strong understanding of adult learning principles, instructional design methodologies (ADDIE, SAM, etc.), and learning evaluation models (Kirkpatrick, Phillips, etc.).  

• Experience leading teams or managing high-profile cross-functional initiatives

• Experience selecting, implementing, and managing learning technologies (LMS, LXP, content authoring tools, etc.).

• Proven ability to conduct needs assessments, analyze data, and identify skill gaps.

• Excellent project management skills: ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously from inception to completion.

• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.

• Exceptional consultative skills; ability to influence and partner effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

• Excellent verbal, written communication, and presentation skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly strong PowerPoint skills for creating compelling presentations and proposals.

• Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment; restaurant or hospitality industry experience is a plus.

• Familiarity with the 70:20:10 learning framework and experience integrating formal and informal learning methods.

Leadership Traits

• Establishes strong internal and external relationships through effective stakeholder engagement, providing strategic advice, and driving execution.

• Recognizes the need for change, identifies opportunities for improvement and innovation in learning, and leads with a clear vision and measurable goals.

• Fosters a welcoming and engaging learning environment that empowers team members.

• Demonstrates critical thinking, synthesizes information from various sources, and makes data-driven decisions to shape learning strategy.

• Holds self and partners accountable for achieving L&D goals and delivering measurable results.

• Adapts quickly to changing business needs and priorities, demonstrating agility in strategy and execution.

Travel Requirement

• Some travel may be required for meetings, site visits, or training delivery (estimated 10-15%).

Work Environment

• Hybrid role requiring presence in the Oak Brook, IL Restaurant Support Center office 3 days per week (typically Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) with the flexibility to work remotely 2 days per week.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by incumbents assigned to this job.  This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the responsibilities, duties and skills required.  The incumbent may be expected to perform other duties as assigned. This job may be reviewed as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity.