Sr. Learning & Development Specialist

Being a Country Bank team member has a lot of perks!  Our competitive total compensation package and comprehensive benefit package include:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) Plan with a generous employer contribution plus match;
• Income protection benefits;
• Educational assistance and tuition reimbursement benefits;
• Remote work and flexible scheduling options;
• Generous total paid time off, and more!

Country Bank is a growing mutual community bank with locations in Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester counties. We are Made to Make a Difference in the lives of our customers, our communities, and for our team members every day since 1850. It is our people that drive our success and create our inclusive and engaging culture. We’re excited to meet you to discuss our career opportunities and how you can make a difference as a part of our growing Learning & Development team!

About the Job:

The Senior Learning & Development Specialist will work under the guidance of the Learning & Development Officer, and is involved in the strategic creation and implementation of training programs and learning opportunities across the Bank. This role collaborates with cross-functional stakeholders to develop and execute learning programs that will enhance knowledge, skills and engagement for employees across every department of the Bank. The Senior Learning & Development Specialist provides program development and support across various topics, including operations, sales and service, leadership, professional development and onboarding.  

The pay range for this position is $60,000 to $75,000.

This position is Full Time, 40 hours weekly. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Other Duties May be Assigned):

• Designs, develops and delivers training to new and existing employees in various topics, including operations, sales and service, leadership, professional development and onboarding. Collaborates with subject matter experts when applicable to ensure training content is meeting business objectives.
• Responsible for all phases of learning program initiatives, including assessing needs, creating learning proposals, developing and designing content, delivering instruction, implementing sustainment solutions and measuring program effectiveness.
• Determines program objectives, course content and appropriate instructional delivery options (i.e. computer-based training, eLearning, simulation, role play, lecture, etc.) for each learning initiative to ensure mastery of subject matter and skill development. Evaluates and recommends external training programs.
• Implements and coordinates logistics related to various learning initiatives, including course and instructor scheduling and set-up in BVS, communicating with participants, creating or ordering materials and ensuring room set-up. Testing and troubleshooting technology systems required for training is also necessary.
• Creates and revises learning documents, course content, lesson plans, audio/visual aids, test criteria, handouts, learning aids and evaluation/measurement tools for all training programs.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of training programs by analyzing learner feedback. May also  evaluate learner skills and on-the-job behaviors (pre and post training) to make recommendations. Provides post-learning support where appropriate in the form of individual training sessions or coaching to increase skill development or comfortability with subject matter. 
• Serves as subject matter expert on learning initiatives and consult with staff in areas relating to instructional design and effective use of technology to further staff development and training programs.
• Acts as co-administrator of the Bank's Learning Management System, including providing assistance for employee requests and questions, as well as providing cross-functional support for system administrators in other areas of the Bank. 
• Acts as a co-administrator of the Learning & Development training calendar and CB Learns Sharepoint site, including site design and revisions to resources.
• Maintains a working knowledge of industry trends in adult learning, instructional design and corporate learning modalities.
• Remains abreast of compliance topics related to assigned training programs, and ensures that training is compliant with regulations and company policy.
• Responsible for building long-lasting relationships with customers, community and colleagues through the embodiment of our Core Values: Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence and Prosperity.
• Other job duties, as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

An employee in this position must be able to work independently, with proven organizational skills and a strong attention to detail. This role requires an individual to multi-task while managing and implementing multiple plans and priorities. An employee in this role must be able to make effective presentations in a group setting, and evidence the ability to work effectively with all levels of Bank employees. This role also requires strong communication skills, both verbally and written, in order to effectively translate details and ideas to various individuals.

This position requires advanced knowledge of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Working knowledge of Microsoft Teams, the BVS Learning Management System, and the Wiley DiSC model and training program are preferred. Basic knowledge of other Microsoft Office Suite items, including Excel and Outlook is also preferred. Knowledge of the Bank systems and operations, for the purpose of building and/or developing training programs, is required. Specialized knowledge of adult education principles, training methods, and techniques is preferred.

Education and Work Experience

A High School diploma or equivalent is required, along with a minimum of two years of general banking experience, and at least two years of experience assessing development needs, creating, implementing, and evaluating effectiveness of various learning methods and strategies in support of individual and team development.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

This position is in an office environment, which means the physical surroundings are generally pleasant and comfortable with minimal exposure to injury or other hazards, with a moderate level of noise. Prolonged periods of sitting and looking at a computer screen with freedom of movement on a regular basis is expected.  Minimal physical effort is required but could include: repetitive motion of wrists and fingers; talking and hearing; and handling of light materials and supplies. This position may require some travel between offices.

Country Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diverse applicants encouraged to apply.