High Force Research invests in developing their team

Investing in its people through training and development is a core value at High Force Research Ltd. Over the last 8 months, ten members of the team, including Team Leaders, aspiring Team Leaders and Training Mentors, have undertaken bespoke Leadership & Management Training.

Working in partnership with MTC Training (part of Sunderland University) who delivered the course, as part of the North East Workforce Skills Programme, the training has included sessions including managing yourself, building relationships & communication, managing others, organisational & business structure, financial awareness and project management. The training has been part funded by High Force Research and utilising ESF funding available through the skills programme.

An awards celebration was held last Friday to mark the ‘graduation’ from the programme. Attending the event from MTC Training were Philippa Charlton Stewart, Course Leader and Matt McMahon, Business Development Consultant, along with the Directors and members of the management team and staff from HFR.

Jane Klotz, HR Manager said:

“All too often companies promote good people into leadership roles without providing the training and tools to do the job.  It’s been great to see the participants grow in confidence over the last 8 months and build their relationships with colleagues, gaining a greater understanding of their day-to-day challenges and roles.”

Having got a taste for the learning experience, the ‘graduates’ are progressing onto the CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management & Leadership, commencing the training in the coming weeks.

Course Leader, Philippa Charlton Stewart commented:

“From the first day meeting the staff on this cohort, I have been impressed by the way they embraced the training with positivity; each session providing examples of how they implemented their new knowledge into the workplace.

It has been a privilege and pleasure to work with them. They are an asset to Highforce Research as everyone from the group have opted to continue their training to a higher level, demonstrating their commitment to growing with the company.”

Chris Skeldon, QA Officer said:

“It’s great that HFR have invested in this training opportunity allowing the group to take time out of the day to day business to develop our leadership skills.

The course provided valuable insights into my own leadership style and created an environment for the group to discuss many real life experiences and case studies which brought the course material to life”

High Force Research will continue to work with MTC Training over the coming year to deliver training and development opportunities for the staff, to equip the team with new skills and enhance the workforce capabilities.