Learning Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Learning Design Manager

Company: ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)

Location: London, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time, Temporary (12 months)

Category: Learning & Development Operations / Instructional Design

Date Posted: October 6, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of engaging digital learning experiences and formative assessments, grounded in robust pedagogical theory and instructional design principles.

• Oversee the creation of storyboards and branded templates for learning content, leveraging tools such as Rise and Storyline, ensuring high-quality and consistent output.

• Develop clear and concise briefs for course developers and manage relationships with external consultants to ensure the successful delivery of learning materials.

• Construct detailed course structures, defining clear learning outcomes and a strategic design approach that aligns with ACCA's educational objectives.

• Champion best practices in learning design to ensure all developed content is customer-focused, pedagogically sound, and incorporates future trends in adult education and digital learning.

• Collaborate closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to produce high-quality learning content, utilizing appropriate learning creation tools for deployment on ACCA's Learning Management System (LMS) platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within the Qualification Implementation team, indicating a strong focus on the strategic deployment and enhancement of ACCA's core qualification curriculum through effective learning design. The emphasis on "customer-focused" content suggests a need for strong user empathy and a data-driven approach to learning development. The temporary nature of the contract implies a project-driven environment, likely focused on specific curriculum updates or new program launches.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop engaging e-learning modules, interactive simulations, and formative assessments that align with adult learning principles and ACCA's qualification framework.

• Create comprehensive storyboards, wireframes, and detailed design documents that clearly articulate the learning flow, content structure, and user interaction for digital learning assets.

• Translate complex subject matter from SMEs into accessible, engaging, and pedagogically effective learning content using industry-standard authoring tools.

• Manage the end-to-end digital learning development lifecycle, from initial concept scoping and content structuring through to technical authoring and platform implementation.

• Develop and maintain a repository of learning design templates, style guides, and best practices to ensure consistency and quality across all digital learning initiatives.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including curriculum developers, marketing, and IT, to ensure seamless integration of learning content into ACCA's LMS and other digital platforms.

• Conduct learning needs analyses and user research to identify learner personas and their specific requirements, ensuring learning solutions are tailored and impactful.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of learning interventions through data analysis of learner performance, engagement metrics, and feedback, using insights to drive continuous improvement.

• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in instructional design, digital education, and learning technologies, recommending and piloting innovative approaches.

• Produce clear and actionable briefs for external content developers and consultants, managing their output to ensure alignment with project goals, quality standards, and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility to "understand best practices to ensure learning developed is customer-focused, pedagogically sound and incorporates future trends" points to a strategic expectation for this role. This involves not just execution but also foresight and a proactive approach to curriculum evolution. The mention of "ACCA's LMS platform(s)" suggests a need for familiarity with enterprise-level learning delivery systems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Instructional Design, Learning Technologies, or a related field is typically expected.

• Master's degree or relevant certifications in Instructional Design or Adult Learning are highly advantageous. Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in instructional design, learning development, or a similar role, with a strong focus on digital learning interventions.

• Proven track record of managing the end-to-end development process for digital learning content, from concept to deployment. Required Skills:

• Instructional Design Expertise: Deep understanding and practical application of pedagogical theories, learning models (e.g., ADDIE, SAM), and adult learning principles.

• E-learning Authoring Tools: Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Articulate Storyline, Articulate Rise, Adobe Captivate, or similar.

• Storyboarding & Content Structuring: Ability to create detailed storyboards, learning outlines, and content flows that effectively guide learners through complex information.

• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Familiarity with LMS administration, content deployment, and reporting functionalities.

• Content Development: Excellent writing skills for scriptwriting, course content, speaker notes, and instructional text.

• Project Management: Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet strict deadlines.

• Collaboration & Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with SMEs, stakeholders, and external partners.

Preferred Skills:

• UX Principles: Understanding of User Experience (UX) principles as applied to learning design for enhanced learner engagement and usability.

• Visual Design: An eye for visual design and aesthetics, with the ability to guide or contribute to the creation of visually appealing learning materials.

• Video Production & Editing: Basic knowledge of video production workflows and editing software for creating engaging multimedia learning content.

• Gamification: Experience in applying gamification techniques to learning design to increase motivation and engagement.

• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret learning data, analytics, and learner feedback to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• Agile Methodologies: Experience working within Agile or iterative development frameworks for learning projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "up-to-date understanding of the latest developments in online and digital education" and the mention of "future trends" suggest that candidates should be proactive learners and innovators in the e-learning space. The emphasis on "identifying learner types" and using them in solutions highlights the importance of user-centric design methodologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of digital learning projects, demonstrating expertise across different formats (e.g., e-learning modules, interactive scenarios, assessments).

• Case studies that detail the learner needs analysis, design approach, development process, and measurable outcomes for key projects.

• Examples of storyboards, design documents, and content structures that illustrate a clear and logical approach to learning architecture.

• Demonstrations of proficiency with key authoring tools (e.g., Articulate Storyline, Rise) and an understanding of their application in creating engaging learning experiences.

• Evidence of creating engaging learning content for diverse audiences, highlighting adaptability and a customer-focused approach. Process Documentation:

• Examples of developed learning content that adhere to strict pedagogical theory and instructional design principles.

• Documentation of the end-to-end development process, from concept scoping and content structuring to storyboarding, authoring, and platform implementation.

• Clear articulation of how learning outcomes were defined and integrated into the design and assessment strategies.

• Demonstration of how user personas, user stories, or empathy mapping were utilized to inform the design of digital learning interventions.

• Evidence of collaboration with Subject Matter Experts and external consultants, showcasing effective brief creation and feedback integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "end-to-end process of developing digital interventions" implies that the portfolio should not just contain final products but also evidence of the strategic thinking, planning, and execution phases involved in learning design. This includes project scoping, content structuring, and technical authoring.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Learning Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in London, UK, a competitive salary range is estimated between £55,000 and £75,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialized skills required, the seniority of the role, and the cost of living in London. Benefits:

• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive private healthcare, life assurance, income protection, and an employee assistance program for holistic wellbeing support.

• Retirement: A strong defined contribution pension scheme to support long-term financial planning.

• Financial Wellbeing: Access to a dedicated financial wellbeing tool, "Nudge."

• Flexible Benefits Platform: Empowers employees to customize their benefits package, including options for:

  • Additional holiday purchases
  • Private Medical Insurance (PMI) family cover
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Travel loans
  • Gym loans

• Perks: Exclusive access to an employee discount site and a wellbeing centre platform.

• Work Arrangement: Blended approach to working, offering flexibility to balance professional and personal life.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. The "blended approach to working" suggests flexibility in how these hours are structured and where they are performed, within operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical market rates for similar roles in London, UK. Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the specific internal grading of the role within ACCA. The extensive list of benefits highlights ACCA's commitment to employee wellbeing and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services / Education & Training (Accounting and Finance)

Company Size: ACCA is a global organization with a significant employee base, likely in the thousands, indicating a well-established and structured corporate environment.

Founded: ACCA was founded in 1904, signifying a long history and deep expertise in the field of chartered accountancy and professional development.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the Qualification Implementation team, suggesting a focus on the practical application and delivery of ACCA's qualification programs.

• The team likely comprises professionals with expertise in curriculum development, assessment design, learning technologies, and project management.

• Reporting to the Head of Qualification Implementation, the structure suggests a clear hierarchy and defined responsibilities within the team.

• Collaboration is expected with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), external consultants, and potentially other departments like IT and marketing to ensure cohesive project delivery. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Learning: Emphasis on creating customer-focused, pedagogically sound content, implying a data-informed approach to understanding learner needs and evaluating effectiveness.

• Instructional Design Excellence: Application of solid pedagogical theory and instructional design principles as the foundation for all learning materials.

• Collaborative Development: Close working relationships with SMEs and external partners to leverage expertise and ensure high-quality content creation.

• Agile/Iterative Processes: While not explicitly stated, the nature of qualification implementation and the need for timely delivery often benefit from agile or iterative project management methodologies.

• Future-Forward Thinking: A commitment to incorporating future trends in digital education and learning technologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: ACCA's long history (founded in 1904) suggests a stable organization with a strong reputation and established processes. The "inclusive, diverse, human and connected" workplace culture statement indicates a commitment to employee wellbeing and a collaborative environment. The flexibility offered in location for this role suggests a modern approach to talent acquisition.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Managerial level within the learning and development operations function. It requires a blend of strategic thinking, hands-on design expertise, and project management capabilities. The focus is on leading the design and implementation of learning solutions that directly support ACCA's qualification offerings.

Reporting Structure: The Learning Design Manager reports directly to the Head of Qualification Implementation. This reporting line provides exposure to senior leadership within the qualification development and delivery sphere, offering visibility into strategic priorities and operational challenges.

Operations Impact: The Learning Design Manager plays a critical role in shaping the learning experience for ACCA's global student base. By creating effective, engaging, and up-to-date learning content, this role directly impacts:

• Student Success: Improving learning outcomes and pass rates for ACCA qualifications.

• Brand Reputation: Enhancing the perceived quality and innovation of ACCA's educational offerings.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlining the development and deployment of learning materials, potentially reducing costs and time-to-market.

• Customer Satisfaction: Ensuring learners find the educational content relevant, accessible, and supportive of their career goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of instructional design, such as advanced assessment design, learning analytics, or immersive learning technologies (AR/VR).

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into senior management roles within Learning & Development, Qualifications, or Curriculum departments.

• Cross-Functional Projects: Opportunities to lead or contribute to larger strategic initiatives involving digital transformation, curriculum reform, or global education standards.

• Industry Engagement: Represent ACCA at industry conferences, contribute to thought leadership, and build a professional network within the global education and professional development sectors.

• Mentorship: Gain experience mentoring junior instructional designers and learning specialists.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 12-month fixed-term contract aspect suggests this role might be tied to a specific project or initiative. While offering significant experience, candidates should clarify potential for extension or conversion to permanent roles if desired. The "flexible on location" aspect, while beneficial, might mean the team operates with a distributed model, requiring strong remote collaboration skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as having a "blended approach to working," indicating a hybrid model that combines remote work with in-office presence. ACCA's Adelphi Building in London likely serves as a primary hub for collaborative activities and team meetings.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: Adelphi Building, London, United Kingdom. This is a central London location, likely offering good transport links and access to amenities.

• Flexibility: The organization is "flexible on the location of this role," suggesting that while London is a base, remote work from other locations within the UK might be permissible, subject to team coordination and operational needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on "human and connected" culture suggest opportunities for in-person collaboration, team building, and knowledge sharing when in the office.

• Technology & Tools: Access to ACCA's standard IT infrastructure, including the necessary software for learning design (Articulate Suite, etc.), communication platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams), and the organization's LMS.

• Professional Setting: Working within a well-established professional body like ACCA means operating in a structured, professional environment with clear expectations for conduct and output.

• Global Reach: The nature of ACCA's work means interaction with global teams and stakeholders, providing exposure to diverse perspectives and international best practices.

Work Schedule:

• The standard working hours are 40 per week. The "blended approach" implies that the specific daily schedule and the balance between remote and office work can be negotiated and agreed upon with the manager, aligning with project deadlines and team requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "flexible on location" detail is significant for candidates outside of London. It implies that while the Adelphi Building is the official office, the role may be suitable for candidates residing elsewhere in the UK, provided they can manage remote collaboration effectively and attend key in-office meetings as required.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on CV and cover letter to assess alignment with core requirements and experience.

• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Head of Qualification Implementation) to discuss experience, motivations, and