Digital Learning Design Manager (12 Months FTC)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Digital Learning Design Manager (12 Months FTC)

Company: Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD)

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Job Type: Fixed-Term (12 Months)

Category: Learning & Development Operations / Instructional Design

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Likely 3-7 years of relevant experience)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the strategic design and development of engaging, interactive e-learning modules and virtual learning experiences within the food and grocery industry.

• Key responsibilities include translating learning briefs into high-quality digital content using industry-standard tools like Articulate Rise and Storyline, with a strong emphasis on learner engagement and retention.

• The position involves collaborating with internal stakeholders to ensure learning content aligns with program objectives and supports practical application for professionals.

• This is a crucial role for enhancing the digital learning capabilities of IGD, contributing to the continuous improvement of learning processes and the overall quality and innovation of digital learning offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data does not explicitly state "Revenue Operations," "Sales Operations," or "GTM," the role of a "Digital Learning Design Manager" within an organization like IGD (Institute of Grocery Distribution) has significant implications for operational efficiency and knowledge management, particularly in driving adoption of new processes, technologies, and industry best practices. This role supports the "operations" of learning delivery and can indirectly impact the operational effectiveness of businesses within the food industry by upskilling their workforce. The focus on "learning operations and delivery" and "continuous improvement using learner feedback, engagement data" aligns with operational improvement principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Digital Learning Design & Development:

  • Design and build high-quality, interactive e-learning modules using Articulate Rise and Storyline.
  • Translate structured learning briefs, storyboards, and content outlines into engaging digital learning experiences.
  • Develop diverse learning activities such as quizzes, scenarios, branching interactions, and knowledge checks to maximize learner engagement.
  • Utilize multimedia tools (e.g., Synthesia, Canva) to enhance learning content and visual appeal.
  • Apply robust instructional design principles to ensure optimal learner engagement, knowledge retention, and completion rates.
  • Continuously improve learning content based on learner feedback, engagement data, and emerging digital tools.
  • Collaborate with the Head of Learning Operations and internal stakeholders to ensure learning initiatives support program objectives and desired learner outcomes.

• Virtual Learning Experience Design:

  • Design engaging virtual learning sessions that promote active participation, discussion, and practical application.
  • Develop supporting activities and materials for live sessions that reinforce digital module content.

• Learning Operations & Delivery:

  • Maintain version control, organize learning assets, and ensure proper documentation for all learning materials.
  • Support the rollout of learning content and contribute innovative ideas to enhance digital learning processes and standards.

• Continuous Learning & Knowledge Sharing:

  • Stay current with advancements in digital learning design, multimedia tools, and emerging learning technologies.

  • Share knowledge, ideas, and best practices with colleagues to strengthen digital learning capabilities within the Learning team.

  • Contribute to elevating the quality, consistency, and innovation of digital learning across all IGD programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a hands-on design and development role with a strong emphasis on instructional design principles and the operational aspects of delivering learning content. The inclusion of "learning operations and delivery" and "version control, asset organization, and documentation" highlights the operational rigor expected.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven experience in designing and developing interactive digital learning solutions, with a focus on practical application and learner engagement.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of instructional design principles, with a focus on improving learner engagement, completion, and knowledge retention.

• Proven experience designing and building interactive e-learning using Articulate Rise and Articulate Storyline.

• Strong ability to design scenario-based and interactive learning experiences that drive engagement, participation, and application.

• Experience translating structured briefs, storyboards, or content outlines into high-quality digital learning solutions.

• Strong visual design skills with experience using multimedia tools (e.g., Synthesia, Canva) to enhance interactivity and learner engagement.

• High attention to detail and the ability to produce polished, user-friendly digital learning efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing or facilitating interactive virtual learning sessions that encourage active participation rather than passive delivery.

• Experience in improving learner engagement and completion rates through enhanced learning design and interactivity.

• Familiarity with learning analytics, LMS platforms, or engagement reporting tools for data-driven content improvement.

• Experience designing gamified, branching, or highly immersive learning experiences.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) in digital learning design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills with specific tools (Articulate Rise/Storyline, Synthesia, Canva) and a strong theoretical understanding of instructional design. The inclusion of "high attention to detail" and "efficiently" points to operational efficiency expectations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• E-learning Modules: Showcase at least 2-3 examples of interactive e-learning modules developed using Articulate Rise and/or Storyline. Highlight complexity, interactivity, and engagement features.

• Scenario-Based Learning: Include examples demonstrating the ability to design effective scenarios that promote critical thinking and decision-making.

• Multimedia Integration: Provide examples where multimedia tools (Synthesia, Canva, video, audio) were used to enhance the learning experience.

• Virtual Learning Design: If available, include materials or descriptions of virtual learning sessions designed for active participation.

• Instructional Design Documentation: Optionally, provide samples of learning briefs, storyboards, or content outlines that were translated into learning solutions, demonstrating the design process.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from receiving a brief to final delivery, emphasizing how they ensure quality, engagement, and adherence to learning objectives.

• A clear understanding of version control, asset management, and the iterative improvement process based on feedback and data is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Digital Learning Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. The emphasis is on demonstrating practical application of design principles and tool proficiency, directly translating into the operational execution of learning content creation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Market-leading pension scheme.

• Bonus scheme.

• Ability to buy and sell annual leave, offering flexibility in work-life balance.

• Generous medical insurance package.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 37.5-40 hours per week. The role emphasizes a good work-life balance, with empowerment to manage time effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on UK market rates for experienced Instructional Designers/Learning Design Managers in the South East of England, considering the fixed-term nature and the provided benefits. The "empowered & trusted to manage your time" aspect speaks to operational flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Grocery Industry (Strategic Insight, Foresight, and Learning)

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, IGD's presence and the nature of their work suggest a medium-sized organization, likely between 50-250 employees, with a dedicated Learning team.

Founded: IGD was founded in 1954, indicating a long-standing, established organization with deep roots and expertise in its sector.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Head of Operations – Learning, indicating a structured Learning Operations function.

• The Digital Learning Design Manager will likely work within a broader Learning or Content Development team, collaborating with subject matter experts, learning facilitators, and other operational support staff.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Learning Improvement: Continuous improvement based on learner feedback and engagement data.

• Instructional Design Excellence: Application of robust instructional design principles to create effective learning.

• Collaborative Development: Working with subject matter experts and stakeholders to translate content into learning.

• Agile Content Creation: Efficiently producing high-quality, user-friendly digital learning.

Company Website: https://www.igd.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: IGD's focus on "strategic insight, foresight, and learning" positions this role as central to operational knowledge dissemination and capability building within the food industry. The company's long history suggests stability and established processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Managerial/Lead position within the Learning & Development function. It requires significant expertise in digital learning design and a capacity for leading the development of learning content.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Head of Operations – Learning, indicating a clear line of management and operational oversight.

Operations Impact: The Digital Learning Design Manager directly impacts the operational capabilities of professionals across the food and grocery industry by creating accessible, engaging, and practical learning resources. This contributes to workforce development, skill enhancement, and ultimately, the operational efficiency and competitiveness of client organizations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced e-learning authoring tools, virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) learning development, or learning analytics.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into senior learning roles, manage larger teams, or lead strategic learning initiatives within IGD or the broader industry.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to shaping learning standards and best practices within the food and grocery sector through innovative design and knowledge sharing.

• Project Management: Gain experience managing complex, high-stakes learning projects for a prominent industry body.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a fixed-term role, it offers significant opportunities to build a strong portfolio and gain experience in a specialized field that is critical to operational success in any industry. The "Manager" title suggests a level of autonomy and responsibility beyond a junior designer.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, combining home-based work with office-based presence.

Office Location(s): Watford, Hertfordshire, UK. This location is described as "very accessible within the M25, just 20 miles from Central London," suggesting good transport links and a convenient location for commuting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model likely involves intentional collaboration, with office days dedicated to team meetings, workshops, and cross-functional interactions.

• Technology Access: Access to necessary digital learning tools (Articulate, Synthesia, Canva), potentially with company-provided hardware and software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to connect with the Head of Learning Operations, colleagues within the Learning team, and potentially subject matter experts from across IGD's partner organizations.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours with an emphasis on work-life balance and time management flexibility. This allows for focused work on design projects while accommodating personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role implies a modern work environment that balances autonomy with collaborative needs, which is increasingly standard for operations and creative roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess essential skills in instructional design and e-learning development tools.

• First Interview: Likely with the Head of Learning Operations to discuss experience, instructional design philosophy, and suitability for the role and team. Expect questions on e-learning development process and problem-solving.

• Practical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A potential assessment, such as a small design task, or a deep dive into portfolio examples. This stage will evaluate technical proficiency, creativity, and understanding of learner engagement principles.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting other key stakeholders or team members to assess cultural fit and broader strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work. For this role, focus on interactive e-learning modules created with Articulate Rise/Storyline, scenario-based learning, and effective multimedia use.

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, briefly explain the learning challenge, your design approach, the tools used, and the impact or outcomes (even if anecdotal).

• Demonstrate Process: Highlight how you translated briefs into learning, your iterative design process, and how you incorporated feedback or data.

• Highlight Interactivity: Clearly demonstrate the interactive elements and explain their pedagogical purpose.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. A digital format (e.g., personal website, shared drive with clear instructions) is preferred.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical learning design brief.

• Practice articulating your instructional design process and how you ensure learner engagement and knowledge retention.

• Be ready to discuss your experience with specific tools (Articulate Rise/Storyline, Synthesia, Canva) and how you leverage them for effective learning.

• Familiarize yourself with IGD's mission and the food and grocery industry to tailor your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and practical skills means candidates should be ready to demonstrate their capabilities rather than just discuss them. The fixed-term nature might mean a more streamlined, but still thorough, interview process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• E-learning Authoring: Articulate Rise, Articulate Storyline (essential).

• Multimedia & Visual Design: Synthesia, Canva (essential). Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) may be beneficial.

• Video/Audio Editing: Basic editing tools for incorporating multimedia elements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Learning Analytics: Familiarity with interpreting learner engagement data, completion rates, and feedback.

• LMS Platforms: Experience with Learning Management Systems (e.g., Moodle, Cornerstone, Docebo) for content deployment and tracking is desirable.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly CRM-focused, understanding how learning content integrates with broader organizational goals and potentially talent management systems is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Articulate Rise and Storyline is non-negotiable for this role. The mention of Synthesia and Canva indicates a need for modern, visually engaging content creation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Hungry for Better: A drive for continuous improvement in learning design, content quality, and learner experience.

• Solve It Together: Collaborative approach to learning design, working with stakeholders and team members to achieve best outcomes.

• Make It Happen: Proactive and results-oriented mindset to deliver high-quality learning content efficiently.

• Say What Needs to Be Said: Open and honest communication, providing constructive feedback and insights on learning design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with the Head of Learning Operations, subject matter experts, and other internal departments.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Openness to receiving and providing feedback to refine learning materials and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively sharing best practices and insights with colleagues to elevate the team's digital learning capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated behaviours ("hungry for better," "solve it together," "make it happen," "say what needs to be said") directly translate into the expected operational ethos of the team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Content: Converting dense industry information into accessible, engaging digital learning formats.

• Maintaining Engagement: Designing learning that holds learner attention and encourages active participation, especially in a hybrid or remote learning environment.

• Rapid Technology Evolution: Keeping pace with new digital learning tools and techniques to maintain a cutting-edge offering.

• Fixed-Term Contract Pressures: Delivering high-quality output within a 12-month timeframe, potentially with tight project deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Authoring Techniques: Opportunities to explore more complex features within Articulate Storyline or experiment with new multimedia tools.

• Instructional Design Best Practices: Continuous learning in adult learning theory, cognitive science, and emerging trends in learning design.

• Industry Insight: Gaining deep knowledge of the food and grocery industry through the content being developed.

• Portfolio Enhancement: A 12-month contract provides a concentrated period to build a strong portfolio of impactful learning projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges and grow within a specialized field, even within a fixed-term contract.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for translating a complex learning brief into an interactive e-learning module." (Focus on your step-by-step approach, from analysis to design and development, and how you ensure engagement.)

• "How do you ensure that your digital learning designs promote active participation and knowledge retention, rather than passive consumption?" (Provide examples of specific techniques, activities, and design choices.)

• "Walk us through an example from your portfolio where you used multimedia tools to significantly enhance learner engagement or understanding." (Be ready to discuss the tool, the rationale, and the impact.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about IGD and the food and grocery industry?" (Show research into IGD's mission and impact.)

• "How do your personal work values align with IGD's behaviours: Hungry for better, Solve it together, Make it happen, Say what needs to be said?" (Provide specific examples from your experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each piece, briefly state the learning objective, target audience, your role, the tools used, key design decisions, and any measurable outcomes or feedback.

• Demonstrate Interactivity: Be prepared to talk through the interactive elements and their purpose.

• Showcase Visual Design: Highlight your aesthetic choices and how they support the learning content.

• Articulate Process: Clearly explain your workflow from brief to final product.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time and provide focused, impactful explanations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize practical demonstration of skills through portfolio examples and thoughtful articulation of the instructional design process and its alignment with company values and industry impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Digital Learning Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the IGD careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features 2-3 high-quality e-learning examples using Articulate Rise/Storyline, scenario-based learning, and multimedia integration. Tailor your selection to showcase skills most relevant to this role.

• Resume Optimization: Update your CV to highlight your experience with Articulate Rise/Storyline, instructional design principles, multimedia tools, and any relevant achievements in improving learner engagement or completion rates. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, discussing your portfolio pieces in detail, and preparing thoughtful answers to behavioral and situational questions, linking them to IGD's stated values and the food industry context.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research IGD's mission, current initiatives, and the food and grocery industry landscape to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding during the interview process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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