LUTON: Building supplies expert Gibbs & Dandy is planning for the future with the introduction of its Management Training Programme.
The two-year course, provides both on and off the job training, and is designed to equip apprentices with the relevant skills needed to become a successful branch manager - with the long-term goal to create a talent pool of trainee managers.
This is the first year the builders' merchant has invested in the Saint-Gobain training initiative, and after a rigorous interview and assessment process has selected four candidates to join the company and benefit from the demanding programme.
Designed to create managerial prospects within the Gibbs & Dandy group, the course includes hands-on and classroom training at the Greenworks academy, as well as covering all operational processes within the branch, from the yard up to purchasing and managerial responsibilities. The candidates are assigned a branch mentor, as well as monthly access to and reviews with operation and sales directors.
In addition, the apprentices are also required to regularly complete and present projects developed by the building distribution group to demonstrate an understanding of the company's market and strategies.
Allanna Docherty, human resources advisor for Saint-Gobain Building Distribution Group, said: "The management scheme is designed to develop branch and assistant branch managers who are knowledgeable in all areas of our business, from the entire matrix of operational processes within the branch, to wider industry issues and strategic thinking.
"Investment in staff is crucial for the success of any business, and we are delighted that Gibbs & Dandy will be creating future branch managers through this programme. Plus, comprehensive training schemes, such as this, are great for promoting the professionalism of the merchant industry, attracting high calibre staff, thanks to the improved prospects and training."
Patrick Guest, operation and sales director for Gibbs & Dandy Group, added: "Utilising this comprehensive training scheme is part of our long-term commitment to developing people within Gibbs & Dandy and the building supplies industry, whilst consistently improving our customer service. Schemes such as this also help to attract new talent to an industry that often has an unfair and unjust reputation for being antiquated.
"We recognise the importance of maintaining the knowledge and experience of long serving staff members, but it is important to complement this with new trainees and progressive schemes, to better service our customers needs."
