Training and Development Manager – Custom Drapery and Blinds

Are you passionate about fostering growth, empowering talent, and bringing technical expertise to the forefront? We’re looking for a dynamic Training and Development Manager to lead and enhance our training efforts within the custom drapery and blinds industry. You will work closely with our decorators, equipping them with the technical know-how they need to deliver a full range of products and services while minimizing rework and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Join the Linen Chest team, one of Canada’s premier home retail destinations for bed, bath, kitchen, and home décor! We are rapidly expanding, and we’re on the lookout for experienced talent to strengthen our growing shop at home division.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess training needs through various methods, including content creation (video, written and in person), 1 on 1 practice, coaching and collaboration and collaboration with managers, office coordinators, and stores, ensuring alignment with business goals and strategies.
• Design, enhance and implement engaging training programs tailored to address the unique challenges of the custom window treatments industry. Primary focus is on the custom windows specialists on the road but also involves helping to find solutions to client issues and can involve working with the office and customer service.
• Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and provide frequent support and followup to ensure objectives are being met. Emphasis on lead management, client contacts, product knowledge and solutions, as well as followup, estimates and sales techniques.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of various business elements of the department and provide strategic input as needed, including measuring improvements in employee performance and business processes.
• Manage the department’s training and development budget, efficient use of resources and collaborating with our suppliers and partners.
• Supporting third party decorators that are hired as independent contractors as part of the Company’s Referral and Trade Program initiatives.

What We’re Looking For

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of the custom drapery and blinds industry to provide relevant and effective training. Familiarity with Hunter Douglas and/or Alta is a plus.
• Exceptional Communication: You excel in conveying complex ideas clearly, whether through writing or in person.
• Inspirational Leadership: You have the ability to motivate and engage others to embrace learning and growth.
• Adaptability: You’re always up-to-date with industry trends, and can easily adjust training programs to reflect the latest technologies and methods.
• Empathy: You understand the importance of fostering an inclusive environment and catering to different learning preferences.
• Organizational Mastery: You can juggle multiple projects, keep everything on track, and stay within budget.

If you’re excited about developing people, applying your technical expertise, and driving success in a growing industry, we’d love to hear from you!