The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Senior Global Learning Administrator / Lead Learning Systems Analyst
3-5 years in a senior individual contributor roleSkills to master
- Deep technical expertise in LMS/LXP administration, advanced troubleshooting, project leadership for system enhancements, initial experience mentoring junior colleagues, and strong stakeholder management.
You're ready to move on when
- You've consistently led complex system projects from start to finish.
- You're the go-to person for tough technical problems that others can't solve.
- You've actively mentored and developed junior team members informally.
- You've started contributing to strategic discussions about the learning tech roadmap.
- You're comfortable managing relationships with key internal and external partners.
- 2
HRIS Manager (with Learning Module Specialisation)
4-6 years managing HRIS, with a focus on learning modulesSkills to master
- Strong understanding of HR data architecture, integration management between HRIS and other systems, data governance, and experience managing a small team or project portfolio.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully managed major HRIS integration projects impacting learning data.
- You're an expert in the learning module of your current HRIS (e.g., Workday Learning, SuccessFactors Learning).
- You've demonstrated leadership in data integrity and system optimisation.
- You're looking to specialise more deeply in the learning technology space.
- 3
Project Manager, Learning & Development
5-7 years managing L&D-specific projectsSkills to master
- Strong project management methodologies (Agile/Waterfall), stakeholder management, budget oversight for projects, and a good understanding of the learning content development lifecycle and technology landscape.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully delivered large-scale L&D programmes that relied heavily on technology.
- You're adept at managing complex project plans, risks, and communications.
- You have a strong interest in shifting from project-specific management to ongoing platform and team management.
- You've demonstrated a knack for problem-solving and process improvement.