Head of Learning & Development – Zain Academy

About the role

The Head of Zain Academy Unit will lead Zain Iraq’s learning and capability development function, shaping strategy, delivery and impact of internal, external and digital learning programmes. This senior position is responsible for aligning learning priorities with business needs and building talent pipelines to support current and future growth.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute an annual learning and development strategy aligned with business goals.
• Identify capability gaps through performance data, talent reviews and succession planning, then translate them into structured learning plans.
• Design, deliver and continuously improve internal training programmes covering technical, functional, behavioural and managerial skills.
• Build and manage a pool of internal trainers and subject‑matter experts, establishing standards for materials and delivery.
• Manage relationships with external providers, universities and professional bodies, overseeing vendor selection, contracting and logistics.
• Lead the digital learning platform, curating content, driving employee adoption and monitoring utilisation and effectiveness.
• Design and run leadership development programmes for various management levels and support succession pipelines.
• Measure learning impact against business outcomes and continuously refine programmes based on feedback.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, Education or related field; Master’s degree or professional certification is a plus.
• 7–10 years of experience in Learning & Development, Corporate Academy or Organizational Development, preferably in a large telecom or fast‑paced technology environment.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing organisation‑wide learning initiatives and leadership development programmes.
• Experience managing digital learning solutions, external training providers and commercial training programmes.
• Strong competency in strategic planning, performance management and financial management related to learning programmes.