Training and Development Specialist

About the Job The Training and Development Partner is a full-time, exempt position within the Human Resources department, based on-site at the Books‑A‑Million Corporate Office. Reporting to the Director of Training, this role drives the growth, readiness, and leadership trajectory of associates across the organization. Role Summary Reporting to the Director of Training, the Training & Development Partner is responsible for driving the growth, readiness, and leadership trajectory of associates across Books‑A‑Million. This role owns the programs that build associates’ readiness for advancement — structured readiness tracks, succession planning, leadership development, and growth pathing. Role Responsibilities Leadership Development Programming Serves as a primary owner of leadership development programming, leading participant selection, curriculum design, facilitation, and post-program follow-through. Designs and delivers immersive, cohort-based learning experiences that build leadership capability at all emerging leader levels. Succession Planning & Growth Pathing Owns succession planning infrastructure, partnering with leaders to identify, track, and develop high‑potential associates across the organization, including structural build‑out, cohort documentation, readiness tracking, and development plan follow‑through. Develops and maintains growth pathway frameworks for associates, managers, and corporate team members, ensuring clarity around advancement requirements, skill expectations, and development resources at each level. Training Needs & Resource Development Conducts training needs assessments in partnership with department leaders to identify capability gaps and define development priorities before program design begins. Identifies skill gaps across roles and levels, creating targeted resources — toolkits, job aids, and role‑specific guides — to close them. Program Measurement & Impact Tracks program participation, cohort progress, and development plan completion across succession and leadership programs, surfacing insights to the Director of Training. Connects development data to business outcomes — using readiness indicators, promotion rates, and retention metrics to evaluate program impact and inform continuous improvement. Additional Responsibilities Performs other duties as necessary and assigned. Role Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business, Education, Organizational Development, a related field, or equivalent experience required. 3–5 years of experience in training, learning & development, talent management, or a related role. Demonstrated facilitation experience delivering leadership and development programming to professional or management‑level audiences. Experience with succession planning processes, readiness tracking, or structured in‑training programs. Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cohort programs simultaneously. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present to and influence senior leaders. Preferred Qualifications Experience in a multi‑site or multi‑state retail environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and SharePoint. Familiarity with succession planning systems or HRIS platforms used to track associate readiness and development. Demonstrated ability to manage relationships across departments and with senior stakeholders, influencing outcomes without direct authority. Experience supporting technology rollouts or AI‑adjacent training initiatives. ATD, SHRM, or similar professional development credential a plus. Work Environment & Expectations Travel Required: 10–15%, including travel to field and event locations. Position Type: Full time, exempt, based at the Corporate Office. Must be able to sit at a computer or desk for extended periods of time. Must be able to use hands/arms to operate keyboard, telephone, and for repetitive motion activities. Must be able to lift objects up to 25 lbs. with or without assistance. Must be able to communicate using speech, sight, and sound with or without assistive device. Must be able to stand, walk, stoop, or crouch during training presentations or daily job activities. The Perks At Books‑A‑Million, we believe in taking care of our employees. As part of the team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including: Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay and performance‑based incentives. Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you healthy. Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy generous PTO and paid holidays. Employee Discounts: Get discounts on books and other products across our stores. Retirement Savings: Build your future with our 401(k) plan and company contributions. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement Books‑A‑Million is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences, and we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their background or personal characteristics. We are dedicated to creating a culture of respect, equity, and opportunity for all employees, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr