Training & Development Specialist, Operations

Poolcorp - Clearwater, FL

Full-time - Mid Level

Clearwater, FL

5,001-10,000 employees

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

About the position

The Training & Development Specialist at POOLCORP is a pivotal role responsible for delivering high-quality training programs focused on Operations Management within the wholesale distribution sector. This position involves both in-person and virtual training sessions aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of POOLCORP employees. The specialist will engage with various stakeholders to develop new training programs, coordinate with guest facilitators, and collaborate with instructional designers to ensure continuous improvement in program delivery and outcomes. A significant aspect of this role includes providing coaching and mentorship to participants in the Manager-in-Training (MIT) program, thereby playing a crucial part in preparing employees for successful careers within the organization. In addition to delivering training, the specialist will be accountable for creating and acquiring training materials, including manuals and guides, to support various training formats such as instructor-led, web-based, and asynchronous training. The role requires the presentation of operations training programs through diverse methods, including demonstrations, group discussions, lectures, simulations, and videos. The specialist will also be responsible for maintaining best practices and procedures in operations, developing individual coaching plans, and providing hands-on assistance to new and existing employees in various operational tasks. Regular interaction with Operations Managers and field leadership is essential to stay updated on the latest trends and policies. The specialist will collaborate with participant managers to share progress, address gaps, and coach students on their career development objectives. Additionally, the role involves evaluating the effectiveness of training programs through assessments and feedback, maintaining records of training activities, and managing the training budget. The Training & Development Specialist will also assist with administrative duties and logistics for in-person classes as needed.

Responsibilities

• Deliver multiple Operations training programs, including the Manager-in-Training (MIT) program and New to Operations Management training.
• Create and acquire training manuals, guides, and course materials for various training formats.
• Present operations training programs using diverse methods such as demonstrations, group discussions, and simulations.
• Develop and maintain operations best practices and procedures, including individual coaching plans for employees.
• Assess attendee performance and provide feedback to improve operations management skills.
• Coordinate with co-facilitators, instructional design teams, and subject matter experts for program delivery.
• Interact regularly with Operations Managers and field leadership to stay updated on trends and policies.
• Collaborate with participant managers to share progress and coach students on career development objectives.
• Ensure compliance with learning objectives through communication with field management.
• Work with IT and Operations leadership to accurately teach ERP and customer-facing technologies to trainees.
• Evaluate program effectiveness through assessments, surveys, and feedback.
• Maintain records of training activities, attendance, and retraining requirements.
• Implement and manage the training budget, maintaining records of expenses.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent industry experience required.
• Degree or certification in Operations, Supply Chain, Distribution Management, or similar experience preferred.
• At least two years of experience with in-person facilitation and training preferred.
• Proven ability to develop others through positive motivation and training.
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills; ability to communicate complex concepts in plain language.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with various multimedia training platforms and methods.
• Ability to partner with co-facilitators and design teams to evaluate training options.
• Capacity to collaborate and build rapport with employees at all levels.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with Workday, Outlook, Adobe, Microsoft Office Suite, and Microsoft Teams preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in the wholesale distribution industry.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

Benefits

• Generous compensation package.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on employee well-being.