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Director, Learning Design

Gap Inc. SF - 2 Folsom Full-time
$140,000
per year

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Director of Learning Design to lead and evolve our instructional design strategy, operations, and delivery at scale. This role will be instrumental in building scalable, modern, and business-aligned learning experiences that serve a diverse, global workforce. The ideal candidate will blend strategic insight with operational excellence and innovation, bringing expertise in instructional design, learning science, technology, and talent development.

What You'll Do

  • Lead and develop a high-performing Learning Design team, fostering a learner-centered, agile, and innovative culture
  • Oversee resource planning, intake prioritization, and project management processes to ensure efficient execution across learning initiatives
  • Develop and implement standardized operating procedures (SOPs), service level agreements (SLAs), and capacity planning models to ensure consistency and quality
  • Own and optimize the LMS and content management systems, driving consistency, governance, and operational excellence
  • Design and activate learning intake methodologies, modality frameworks (ILT, virtual, microlearning), staffing models, and content impact/adoption tracking tools
  • Deliver thought leadership in instructional design, adult learning theory, and inclusive content practices
  • Train and upskill the broader Learning and Talent Management teams in emerging learning methodologies, technology, and practices
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Learning Experience Partners (LEPs), HRBPs, and business stakeholders to translate enterprise capability needs into effective learning solutions
  • Guide technology enablement, learning governance, and systems integration across the learning ecosystem
  • Pilot and scale innovative learning approaches, including AI, adaptive learning, microlearning, and performance support
  • Manage and optimize a pool of external vendors and contractors, including onboarding, performance tracking, and contract oversight
  • Explore and implement offshoring/nearshoring/vendor solutions to enhance agility and cost-effectiveness in content development
  • Contribute to long-range learning strategy planning and scale, with potential to oversee learning operations, governance, and community of practice development

Who You Are

  • Bachelor’s degree in Learning Design, Instructional Design, Organizational Development, or related field; advanced degree preferred
  • 10+ years of experience in learning design, instructional design, or enterprise talent development, with 5+ years in a leadership role
  • Proven success leading learning teams and delivering impactful programs at scale in complex environments
  • Deep understanding of adult learning theory, instructional design models (ADDIE, SAM), and performance-based learning
  • Demonstrated expertise in project management, agile operations, and process optimization
  • Strong business acumen with experience influencing senior leaders and cross-functional partners
  • Proficiency in LMS/LXP platforms (e.g., Workday Learning, Cornerstone), authoring tools (Articulate, Rise, Adobe), and analytics tools (Power BI, Tableau)
  • Experience managing vendor relationships and contract negotiation
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a track record of fostering collaboration
  • Comfort navigating ambiguity and building systems and structure from the ground up

    Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification in instructional design, learning technology, or related fields
  • Experience with DEI learning practices and inclusive content strategy
  • Familiarity with community of practice development and learning operations

Company Information

Location: San Francisco, CA

Type: Hybrid