Director of Training & Development – Gamified Learning Innovation

Job Title: Director of Training & Development – Gamified Learning Innovation

Location: Heartland Restaurant Group

About Us:

At Heartland Restaurant Group, a franchisee of Dunkin’, we are employee first fanatics! One of the fastest growing and top workplaces in the region over the past 15 years, we have brought the resurgence of Dunkin’ to Pittsburgh, Western Pennsylvania, Southeastern Ohio, and Northeastern WV, currently employing around 1,700 Team Members in 78 locations.

Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Director of Training oversees all training for the organization, leading the planning, design, and implementation of all training and development programs across the HRG/Dunkin’ network of restaurants, including the facilitation of restaurant systems and tools, classroom leadership trainings, new product launches, food safety protocols, and franchisee-specific initiatives.

At Heartland Restaurant Group, we believe that learning should be engaging, interactive, and accessible to all. We are a dynamic and growing organization dedicated to empowering our teams through cutting-edge training and development initiatives. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a visionary leader to transform our learning experience through gamification and digital innovation.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking a Director of Training & Development to build and implement a next-level learning platform that integrates gamification to enhance engagement, retention, and performance. This role will lead the charge in designing and delivering innovative training solutions that resonate with employees across all of our stores and diverse demographics. Additionally, this position will oversee training specialists and manage training initiatives for new store openings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a company-wide training and development strategy that aligns with business goals.
• Design and implement a digital learning platform that leverages gamification, interactive modules, and reward-based engagement.
• Create scalable, adaptive learning programs that cater to a diverse workforce across multiple locations.
• Oversee training specialists and ensure consistent training implementation across all stores.
• Lead and manage training initiatives for new store openings, ensuring smooth onboarding and operational readiness.
• Utilize data analytics to track training effectiveness and continuously improve learning outcomes.
• Collaborate with department leaders to identify training needs and craft customized solutions.
• Stay ahead of industry trends in learning technologies, gamification, and employee development.
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing training team.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in corporate training, learning & development, or a related field.
• Experience overseeing training specialists and managing training for new store openings.
• Strong understanding of the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry and its unique training needs.
• Expertise in instructional design, e-learning platforms, and gamification techniques.
• Strong understanding of adult learning principles and digital engagement strategies.
• Experience implementing company-wide learning programs across multiple locations.
• Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and digital training tools.
• Strong leadership, project management, and analytical skills.
• Passion for fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Why Join Us?

• Be at the forefront of transforming corporate learning through cutting-edge gamification.
• Work in an innovative, forward-thinking environment that values creativity and growth.

Competitive salary, benefits, and career development opportunities.

·   ServSafe proctor certification or willingness to successfully complete certification within the first three months of hire.

·   Must be able to travel to various locations to oversee training activities and work on-site at corporate office.