What is a training broker?

A training broker acts as an intermediary between organisations and training providers, helping to source, compare and book training on behalf of the client.

Rather than delivering training directly, a training broker focuses on identifying suitable courses or providers based on a specific requirement and managing the booking process.

Training brokerage is often used where organisations need access to the wider training market, without maintaining extensive supplier relationships internally.

What does a training broker typically do?

Training brokerage usually includes:

  • Sourcing suitable training providers or courses
  • Comparing options based on cost, availability, and relevance
  • Booking training on behalf of the organisation
  • Acting as a single point of contact for training requests

The emphasis is on matching need to provision, rather than managing the full training lifecycle.

What training brokerage does not usually cover

Training brokerage does not typically include:

  • Ongoing governance of training activity
  • End-to-end administration across multiple programmes
  • Continuous reporting and performance management
  • Broader learning process ownership

For organisations with more complex or ongoing training needs, brokerage alone may not provide sufficient structure.

When training brokerage is commonly used

Training brokers are often used where:

  • Training needs are occasional or ad hoc
  • Internal teams want help navigating the training market
  • Speed and convenience are the priority

In these cases, brokerage provides flexibility without long-term commitment.

Related explainers:

How does using a training broker or managed learning service differ from using a training provider?
When is a training broker particularly valuable?

Find out more about our approach to training brokerage and managed learning services.