Avanti West Coast
Leadership Development Manager

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We’re looking for a Leadership Development Manager to join our Employee Experience team to design and deliver innovative, evidence-based leadership solutions that strengthen our leadership pipeline and enable inclusive, high-performing teams.
About the Role
This is a pivotal role within our Employee Experience function, responsible for designing, delivering and continuously evolving high-impact leadership development frameworks and programmes aligned to organisational strategy, culture and values.
Key Accountabilities
You will:
- Design, implement and deliver leadership development frameworks and programmes across multiple leadership levels (emerging, mid-level and senior leaders)
- Translate business strategy into practical, scalable leadership solutions that build capability aligned to organisational priorities
- Deliver blended learning experiences, including workshops, digital learning, coaching and action learning
- Provide structured coaching and mentoring to colleagues at all levels, supporting confidence, growth and performance
- Manage and deliver leadership assessment tools (e.g. 360 feedback, psychometrics) to inform development planning
- Evaluate the effectiveness and ROI of leadership programmes using data, insights and feedback
- Embed organisational values, inclusion, wellbeing and ethical leadership into all development activity
- Collaborate with external providers, coaches and facilitators to enhance programme quality and reach
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
We are looking for someone with experience working in a dynamic organisation who can demonstrate an adaptable and flexible working style.
What We’re Looking For
Solid experience in Learning and Development, with a strong emphasis on coaching and mentorship.
- Strong communication and facilitation skills, enabling you to effectively engage, inspire, and influence leaders.
- An innovative, commercial mindset with the ability to design programmes that anticipate future industry trends and deliver impactful results.
- Relevant coaching or training qualifications that demonstrate a commitment to best practices in talent development.


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Please see the role profile for more information
Frequent travel to our Crewe offices will be required
Please note: We may close this advert early if we receive a strong response, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Benefits
As well as working with a fantastic team you will also receive:
- Final salary pension
- Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
- Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
- 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
- 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators
Be You. With Us.
At Avanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced, and everyone is supported to thrive.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London