Najla Claar

About Najla Claar

Senior Learning & Development leader with 15+ years of experience building, scaling, and leading training functions that drive business performance, compliance, and workforce capability. Known for setting learning strategy that moves beyond delivery and delivers measurable impact aligned to organizational goals. Expert in enterprise learning strategy and program leadership, including needs analysis, curriculum architecture, LMS optimization, vendor management, and performance evaluation. Proven ability to build sustainable learning infrastructures while leading teams, managing budgets, and executing across complex, fast-paced environments. Trusted partner to senior leadership, translating business priorities and regulatory requirements into scalable learning solutions that strengthen leadership pipelines, improve retention, and support long-term organizational growth. Recognized for positioning L&D as a strategic driver of performance, culture, and operational excellence.

Experience

1. Sr Manager - Learning and Development

   MetroNational

   Apr 2026 — Present · Houston, TX, US

   Lead learning strategy and execution for a multi-site security workforce, aligning programs with safety, compliance, customer experience, and operational goals.• Build and scale the L&D function for the Security organization, including managing and coaching a Training Specialist and establishing team workflows.• Oversee the full lifecycle of learning programs, from needs assessment through evaluation, with a focus on measurable business impact and performance outcomes.• Direct the development of leadership programs for Security Ambassadors and supervisors, strengthening accountability, communication, and effectiveness.• Manage the L&D budget and vendor partnerships, including sourcing, negotiating, and overseeing external providers and learning solutions.• Lead large-scale engagement initiatives, including Quarterly Security Town Halls, from planning and content development to execution.• Lead and evolve recognition programs for the Security organization, including the Security Ambassador of the Year initiative, reinforcing a high-performance culture.• Own and optimize the MCity Academy LMS, driving adoption, reporting, and continuous improvement.• Partner with leadership, HR, legal, and operations to translate business priorities and regulatory requirements into scalable learning solutions.• Track key performance indicators, including engagement, retention, and operational impact, using data to inform strategy and continuous improvement.

Education

• Mercy University

  Master's degree, English Literature

• The University of Texas at Austin

  Bachelor's degree, Government