APPRENTICEGREATS 200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
SPONSORED BY:
We’re in the top 10% of apprenticeship providers in the country.
grow your
business
2|
invest in an
APPRENTICEGREATS
apprentice Financial incentives Grants between £1,500 - £2,275 when you recruit an apprentice. Conditions apply.
Apprentices are a great way to grow your workforce and harness talent, to ensure the future success of your business. Our dedicated team will take the pain out of recruitment with a FREE matching service. We will advertise, screen and shortlist candidates before you interview them, making sure they are work ready when they reach you. To speak to a member of our Apprenticeships Team call 0191 490 2258 or email employers@gateshead.ac.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
www.gateshead.ac.uk
CONTENTS
CONTENTS 04 FOREWORD From NECC president David Laws
06 CONSIDERING BECOMING AN APPRENTICE? Your questions answered
08 BENEFITS FOR BUSINESS
38 MANUFACTURING 49 CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY
Your questions answered
12 SUCCESS STORIES
Discover the benefits of apprenticeships for young people and business alike
57 PUBLIC SECTOR & HEALTHCARE
16 A PIONEER FOR APPRENTICES
60 TRANSPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE
18 PIONEERS OF THE APPRENTICESHIP
65 WHOLESALE & RETAIL 67 LEISURE, CULTURE & TOURISM 71 FINANCIAL
Meet one of the region’s first-ever apprentices
With Gateshead College principal and chief executive Judith Doyle
20 LIFE’S BIGGEST MOMENTS With Middlesbrough College principal and chief executive Zoe Lewis
22 FROM THE SHOP FLOOR TO THE BOARDROOM NECC200 PATRONS
With NECC head of training operations Andrew Robson
72 NECC200
Celebrating 200 years of North East business
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
24 BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
10 HOW TO EMPLOY AN APPRENTICE
3|
200 APPRENTICE GREATS - BUSINESS LEADERS WHO BEGAN LIFE AS APPRENTICES:
How much can an apprentice add to your business?
FO R E WOR D
David Laws NECC president and former apprentice
A MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS 4| APPRENTICEGREATS
As a former apprentice, it’s a real pleasure to write the foreword for this publication, published to mark NECC’s bicentenary. This book celebrates 200 people who began their successful careers as apprentices in the region, demonstrating the success that can be achieved by taking this career route. I hope this inspires more employers to recognise what can be achieved by apprentices and, in turn, to consider recruiting more of them across the region. We are nothing without our people, and apprentices are the lifeblood of our businesses and key to our future prosperity. While many of us recognise this, we also need more business leaders to recognise the value apprenticeships bring and embrace them within their recruitment and development programmes. We face major challenges, not least a shortage of engineering talent. With more than 8,000 of our engineers reaching retirement age now, there is a skills gap requiring new blood to ensure our engineering and manufacturing businesses remain competitive. We have developed a reputation for world-leading expertise in other sectors too, including finance, digital and energy, and we need to ensure we have succession plans in place to maintain our position. We are grateful to our sponsors, Gateshead College and Middlesbrough College, in supporting us to produce this publication. This is a who’s who of former apprentices, to inspire both employers and young people to consider apprenticeships; working together to grow our region’s talent and ensure our businesses are fit for the future.
FOR E WO RD
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
Being asked to decide what you want to do with your life when you’re still in your teens can seem unrealistic. The range of jobs and careers is endless, which is why schools, training providers, colleges and universities are working more closely than ever with business to understand the skills needed for tomorrow’s workplace. Apprenticeships give you a great way to get ahead and start learning those skills now. They give you a real job, with a real wage, a real qualification and a real future. This publication includes profiles of 200 former apprentices, many of whom have progressed to become influential leaders. Many of them began an apprenticeship in one subject and are now following a different career path, with some interesting examples such as moving from engineering to hospitality or fire fighting to aviation. In addition to highlighting some real apprentice greats, this book also illustrates exciting career opportunities in some fantastic North East organisations, demonstrating that you can have a great career right here in the region, beginning with an apprenticeship as your route to future success. Be inspired. And best wishes for your future career.
5|
A MESSAGE TO YOUNG PEOPLE, PARENTS, TEACHERS AND ADULT LEARNERS
APPR E NT IC E B E NE F ITS
CONSIDERING BECOMING AN APPRENTICE? YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
6|
WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP? An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to earn while you learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification and a real future. Apprenticeships are work-based programmes which combine practical training with study, enabling you to work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Anyone living in England who is over 16 years old and not in full-time education can apply.
APPRENTICEGREATS
APPRENTICESHIPS INCLUDE: SKILLS A competency-based qualification which allows you to demonstrate your ability in the workplace while performing the skill, trade or occupation to which the apprenticeship framework relates. THEORY This is your understanding of the theoretical concepts and knowledge related to your job. TRANSFERABLE SKILLS These are the Maths, English and ICT skills you need in any job.
“Earn while you learn in a real job and gain a real qualification”
LOOKING FOR AN APPRENTICESHIP? Becoming an apprentice With more than 22,000 quality apprenticeship vacancies available online at any one time, there has never been a better time to start an apprenticeship. Visit www.apprenticeshipvacancymatchingservice.lsc.gov.uk to start searching and applying for vacancies now.
APPR E NT IC E B E NEFITS
THE BENEFITS
of all former apprentices received a promotion within 12 months of finishing their apprenticeship
Employers consider qualified apprentices to be 15% more employable than those with other qualifications People with advanced apprenticeships earn on average more than £100,000 more than other workers over the course of their career** An average apprentice’s wage is £170 per week* Sources: *Apprenticeship Pay Survey 2007 **London Economics Vocation Qualifications Research September 2011
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
32%
A REAL FUTURE The majority of apprentices (85%) stay in employment after their apprenticeship, two-thirds (64%) with the same employer. A third (32%) of former apprentices receive a promotion within 12 months of finishing, and of those in work, three quarters (75%) take on more responsibility. Employers consider qualified apprentices to be 15% more employable than other workers.
7|
A REAL JOB Apprenticeships open doors to some of the region’s best companies. More than 150,000 employers are currently offering apprenticeships in more than 200,000 locations, including the North East. You get a wage rather than worrying about student loans, you receive the appropriate national minimum wage, sometimes more, and all apprentices work for at least 30 hours a week, apart from in exceptional circumstances. Apprenticeships are available at three levels Intermediate, Advanced, and Higher (degree) covering more than 170 industries and 1,500 job roles, including accountancy, IT, customer service, catering, dental, engineering and many more.
A REAL QUALIFICATION All apprenticeships take 1-4 years to complete, during which you will gain a respected national qualification and valuable workplace skills and experience through structured training. Apprenticeships also count as UCAS points and can provide a route through to university.
BU SINE SSB E NE F ITS
THE BENEFITS OF APPRENTICESHIPS FOR BUSINESS Are you an employer wondering how an apprenticeship programme can benefit your business? Read on…
Apprentices bring real benefits to business Nearly every employer taking on an apprentice reports benefits to their business 8| APPRENTICEGREATS
Increased business productivity Apprentices receive relevant training, so they have an immediate impact and make a real and meaningful contribution to your business
“96% of employers say their business benefits after taking on an apprentice”
96% £214
of employers who had taken on an apprentice said their business had benefited
Employers report improved productivity of £214 per week as a result of employing an apprentice
BU SINE SSB E NEFITS
EMPLOYER INFORMATION
The average apprenticeship increases business productivity by enabling the business to deliver increased profits, lower prices, and better products
Improved employee satisfaction 80% of businesses feel that apprenticeships reduce staff turnover, leading to a more loyal and committed workforce
72% Source: National Apprenticeship Service 2014
of employers report improved productivity as a result of employing an apprentice
APPRENTICESHIPS COMPRISE: Vocational qualification (Award, Certificate, Diploma): This reflects the range and depth of competence in skills required for working in your industry. Technical Certificate: A knowledge-based qualification demonstrating underpinning knowledge and understanding of your industry and employment rights and responsibilities. Functional Skills: The core elements of English, Maths and ICT. Personal Learning and Thinking Skills: Six groups of skills which, depending on your industry, may be embedded into the other qualifications in the apprenticeship or assessed as a separate qualification.
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
Increased bottom line
9|
77%
of employers believe apprenticeships make them more competitive
Designed by employers for employers, apprenticeships are work-based learning programmes which lead to nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships are available for new and existing employees across a range of sectors including IT, finance, construction, engineering, health, and catering. Apprenticeships allow employees to develop occupational and personal skills in the working environment and employers report that apprenticeships help them to grow their own talent and develop a motivated, skilled workforce. There are three levels of apprenticeship: Intermediate Level (Level 2) Advanced Level (Level 3) Higher (Level 4 and above)
E MPLOYINGAPPR E NT ICES
HOW TO EMPLOY AN APPRENTICE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
10 |
Q WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP? An apprenticeship is a way for young people and adult learners to earn while they learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification.
APPRENTICEGREATS
Q IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT? Anyone living in England, aged over 16 and not in full-time education can apply to be an apprentice. Q WHAT ARE THE COSTS? Training providers receive Government funding which enables them to subsidise the cost of training for most learners.
“Brilliant and invaluable - we can’t afford not to have proper succession planning” Neil Schneider, CEO Stockton Borough Council
Q ARE THERE GRANTS AVAILABLE? The £1,500 AGE grant helps employers with fewer than 50 employees to employ an apprentice, subject to eligibility. Your training provider should be able to advise whether you are eligible. Q HOW LONG DOES AN APPRENTICESHIP LAST? Apprenticeships can last 1 to 4 years, depending on the level of qualification. Q HOW MANY APPRENTICESHIP TYPES ARE THERE? There are currently more than 250 different types of apprenticeship offering more than 1,400 job roles. All apprenticeships are developed with employers and Sector Skills Councils to ensure they meet the needs of employers. Apprenticeships are also available in business support functions including business administration and finance.
E MPLOYINGAPPR E NTICES
Q WHAT DOES AN APPRENTICE LEARN? Knowledge and competence-based elements, Transferable or Functional Skills, employee rights and responsibilities, learning and thinking skills. Q HOW MUCH TIME IS OFF THE JOB? A specified amount of learning takes place off the job, within the apprentice’s paid hours, as follows: • Day release (depending on the programme) • At least two hours study time per week • Attendance at exams or for additional support
Q HOW MANY HOURS DOES AN APPRENTICE WORK? Apprentices must work a minimum of 30 contracted hours per week on Government-supported programmes. Q ARE THERE ANY HEALTH & SAFETY ISSUES TO CONSIDER? It is a requirement for use of Government funding that employers comply with Health & Safety legislation. This is usually co-ordinated by your training provider.
There are four steps to taking on an apprentice: CHOOSE A TRAINING PROVIDER Contact NECC, Gateshead College, Middlesbrough College or one of the other training providers in the region, or go to www.nas.apprenticeships.org.uk to search for an apprenticeship training organisation by postcode or key word. You can also access advice by filling in the online form provided by The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS), which can then recommend suitable training providers.
RECRUIT YOUR APPRENTICE To recruit an apprentice (as opposed to putting an existing member of staff on an apprenticeship) it will save significant time if you work with a provider who will source and shortlist candidates for you. Training providers will also advertise your vacancy through The National Apprenticeship Service apprenticeship vacancies site.
CHECK GRANT AVAILABILITY Employers who are new to apprenticeships or haven’t enrolled a new recruit or existing employee onto an apprenticeship programme in the previous 12 months may be eligible for the £1,500 AGE grant. Ask your training provider to check for you.
TRAIN YOUR APPRENTICE Finally, your training provider will co-ordinate your apprentice’s training, qualification and assessment programme.
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
HIRING AN APPRENTICE
11 |
Q WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Businesses save time and money on recruitment, training is specific to the job role, and employers report that business productivity increases.
Q WHAT DOES AN APPRENTICE EARN? Employers must pay at least the national minimum wage to apprentices.
SU CCE SSSTO RI ES
STORIES OF APPRENTICESHIP SUCCESS 12 | APPRENTICEGREATS
Companies across a host of sectors in the North East are home to inspiring stories of apprentices who are making their first career steps. Here are just a few of them
CARLY TOAL Carly Toal, 18, is moving up the career ladder having been appointed assistant marketing account executive at Co Durham creative agency We Are The Works, after completing a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship. She says: “The experience I gained from my apprenticeship ensured I was fully prepared for employment. I was so happy to get a full-time job so quickly, starting my new job the day after I finished college. “Getting hands-on practical experience while learning gives you a lot of great advantages, confidence and experience, and it shows potential employers how capable you are of thriving in a working environment.”
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
SU CC E SSSTORIES
13 |
LIAM MCLAUGHLIN
Ferdinand Sequeria, 24, from Gosforth, Newcastle, has recently completed his Customer Service Apprenticeship while working at the Newcastle Marriott Hotel Gosforth Park. He says: “I feel really pleased to have completed my Customer Service apprenticeship and I’ve really enjoyed the journey. Thanks to my qualification, I feel that I have added to my experience and I’m grateful for the fantastic level of support I have received from my tutors. “I would thoroughly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone interested in gaining a great customer service qualification.” Marriott’s HR training officer Libbi Benson says: “The flexibility that the course has given us has been fantastic. The qualifications have really helped our team with their efficiency, time management and customer service skills.”
Liam McLaughlin, 16, of Stokesley, North Yorkshire, is on a three-year apprenticeship with Labman (Laboratory Automation Custom Robotics) in Seamer, Stokesley, where he works as a robotic engineer. Liam says: “I wanted to get into engineering, but wasn’t sure which area to focus on. At Labman I can try electrical, robotic, mechanical and design to see what suits me best. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone. It’s great to earn a wage while gaining experience and learning a trade.” Labman robotic engineer Richard Frank says: “Apprentices get to work on projects from concept to completion and gain experience in every element of the creative process. Labman is committed to apprenticeships. We’re incredibly fortunate to have three dedicated young people who’ll benefit enormously from the variation and experience an apprenticeship provides.”
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
FERDINAND SEQUERIA
SU CCE SSSTO RI ES
14 | APPRENTICEGREATS
VICKIE ENGLISH
LEWIS INGRAM
Caterpillar Peterlee, which has more than 30 apprentices in roles across the organisation, from fabrication to paint and auto-electrical, is the only site in the world manufacturing Caterpillar trucks, which are exported around the globe. Vickie English, 22, a Level 3 Auto Electrician apprentice, says: “Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to gain experience straight away. They are a great start to your career.” Managing director Phil Handley, who began his career as an apprentice, adds: “At Caterpillar, we operate on a global scale - 95% of what we produce is exported overseas. We need skills, knowledge and energy to compete and apprentices bring that.“
Lewis Ingram, 19, from Hebburn, South Tyneside, is undertaking an apprenticeship as a dental nurse at Chester Road Dental Practice in Sunderland. Lewis says: “I decided on an apprenticeship as I wanted to earn while learning at the same time. I really enjoy working with the dentists; I learn so much while getting paid for it, which I would not have been able to do if I had gone into higher education. “My favourite part of the apprenticeship is the practical, hands-on side, and applying all the knowledge I’m building in the practice. I have also really enjoyed learning all about dental anatomy in the classroom, understanding the names of the bones, muscles and nerves.”
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
Championing the region since 1815
Smart, eager apprentices
The difference is NECC We’ve had some frustrating experiences with engineers we’ve taken on straight from university, but it’s been quite the opposite with the apprentices we have had from NECC Jamie Marsay, Senior Manager, Labman Automation Ltd
NECC - The employers’ choice for apprenticeships. Over 25 apprenticeships available including accountancy, building technician, business administration, IT and engineering. For more information on how you can benefit from apprenticeships contact us. Tel: 0300 303 6322 Email: training@necc.co.uk Web: www.necc.co.uk 200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
We are committed to developing the future workforce
15 |
There are multiple benefits to Labman and the apprentices
IN SPI RI NGSTO RY
16 | APPRENTICEGREATS 200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
INSPIR INGSTORY
A PIONEER FOR APPRENTICES Liz Hands meets George Loble, one of the first apprentices in the region
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
war with Germany, so I was termed an ‘enemy alien’. I have always been most grateful to Mr Sigmund for giving me an opportunity in life. “We got the first year off the job for training, which was unusual then. I went to Gateshead Technical College on evening and day release, becoming a graduate engineer. Unusually, I was paid nine shillings for a 48-hour week rather than my parents having to pay for my training.” One of the last surviving of Gateshead College’s original apprentices, Mr Loble spent 10 years at Sigmund before becoming a mechanical equipment engineer in London. He returned in the 1950s to run the family’s Loblite business, which had returned to its electrical roots, and he remained there until his retirement 20 years ago. Mr Loble, who went on to become a magistrate and a school governor and was awarded an MBE for charity work in the North East, credits his apprenticeship with setting him up in his career and he took on a new apprentice at his firm every year. He officially opened the Gateshead Skills Academy on Team Valley in 2008 and he has backed the NECC-led 100 Apprentices in 100 Days campaign. Mr Loble has written a book about his experiences to raise awareness and remembrance of the Holocaust as well as recording the family history for his children, grandchildren and great grandchild. It is available to download at www.theboyfrombamberg.com
17 |
When the young George Loble fled Nazi Germany before the war, he arrived in the UK with just a few clothes and 10 shillings. As a child in Bamberg, Bavaria, his family was well off, his father and uncle employing 200 people at a factory making outdoor light fittings. The family employed a maid and a nanny, and a chauffeur picked up his father for work each morning. But with Hitler in power, war imminent and Jews stripped of their rights and money, the family had to flee. The family firm was sold, the Gestapo confiscated the proceeds, and the young George travelled with relatives to London. There, he stayed with a Jewish family until his parents’ visas were supported by a British intelligence officer. The reason given on the visa for entering the UK was ‘to found a manufacturing plant for electric light fittings and accessories’, and this had to be done within 12 months. Penniless, with limited English and a year to set up a business employing British workers, the family was under pressure, but offered premises on Team Valley Industrial Estate by the British Board of Trade, Loblite Ltd was successfully launched, manufacturing engineering parts for the war effort. Meanwhile, aged 14, young George applied for an apprenticship at Sigmund Pumps, also on Team Valley. “It was very brave of Mr Sigmund to take on a foreigner whose English was not very good,” says Mr Loble, now 88. “I was German and Britain was at
E X PERT O P IN IO N
PIONEERS OF THE APPRENTICESHIP Judith Doyle, Gateshead College principal and chief executive, on the importance of apprenticeships for North East business
18 | APPRENTICEGREATS
I feel a great responsibility in ensuring our business community has access to the skilled workforce they need and that we give young people the very best chance of a successful and rewarding career, and if they can achieve that in the North East then that’s even better. I want to help young people understand the amazing opportunities open to them, to fuel their ambitions and aspirations and encourage them to believe in the art of the possible. It is important that we give sound, robust advice about the different paths they can take to achieve their career goals and to help them see that apprenticeships are as equally attractive as an A Level and degree route into work. Worryingly, the majority of young people have never been properly advised about the option of an apprenticeship while at school so are not in a position to make an informed decision about their future. At Gateshead College we continue to invest in our careers service and I think it is critically important that we are able to offer high quality, impartial advice and guidance in helping young
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
people discover the best education route for them and see them through to a bright, rewarding future. This is supported by lecturers who have good links with employers and have worked in industry, so they can help to equip students with the necessary confidence and skills to get ahead in work. Apprenticeships provide employers with access to a skilled pool of talent that can give them a commercial edge. I think we will all agree that this has never been more important in an age where businesses are trying to gain market share, not just locally, but in national and international circles too. At Gateshead College, we pioneered one of the very first apprenticeship schemes with Sigmund Pumps in the 1950s. We now deliver more than 2,000 apprentices a year to more than 450 local employers across a wide range of sectors, including construction, engineering, hospitality, logistics, automotive and hair and beauty. We are the known first choice for employers looking to embark on training or apprenticeship programmes. Our customers include some of the region’s big-hitters, such as car giant Nissan and logistics specialist Vantec, but we also work with a
E XPE RT OP INION
Gateshead College is Nissan’s trusted training partner and has trained more than 1,000 apprentices for the car maker
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
Apprenticeships don’t just benefit employers and learners, they have a much wider impact on the region in terms of improving the quality of people’s lives, cutting unemployment and driving economic growth. And while we are all thankful that unemployment in the region has been falling steadily for several months, we are starkly aware that the North East still has the highest jobless rate in the country, with roughly one in 12 people aged 16-plus out of work. We know there is no quick fix to this problem but apprenticeships can be a major part of the solution. They allow our young people to earn a wage while gaining key skills that are useful to businesses. They also allow employers to retain vital talent that can make a big difference to their bottom line. We therefore urge more North East employers to invest in apprenticeships, which are a great way of retaining talent within a business and preventing a potential brain-drain of talent from the region. From our point of view, we will continue to support NECC by working with employers to ensure their workforces are equipped with the skills, qualifications and talent that will drive their businesses forward.
19 |
range of SMEs that require an injection of skills to take their business forward. Businesses choose to work with us because we listen to and meet their needs; we understand every employer is different and we become a training partner not just a supplier of training. We get under the skin of what businesses need and we develop bespoke training and apprenticeships. We’ve developed successful apprenticeship programmes that have been delivering successfully for many years, indeed decades. We have an exclusive partnership and longstanding relationship with NECC; something which indicates just how focused we are on delivering an outstanding service for industry. I am extremely proud that we have achieved a place in the top 10% of apprenticeship providers in England for a third year in a row, with 80% of our 1,421 apprentice learners completing their courses during the 2013-14 academic year – considerably higher than the national average of 70%; this is a reflection of the dedication of our staff and our commitment to providing a high quality service to our apprentices and the employers they work for.
E X PERT O P IN IO N
LIFE’S BIGGEST MOMENTS Zoe Lewis, Middlesbrough College principal and chief executive, on the importance of investing in young people
20 | APPRENTICEGREATS
Big moments in time. Lives are peppered with them and often it’s only when you look back that you realise their significance. My first was when I was aged 16. I achieved excellent GCSE results at school, but with no careers advice at all, I seemingly had no option, but to start my A Levels. However, I started wondering why my older brother and his friends were still out of work in October, having graduated from University that Spring. Why study for so many years, if it didn’t help you get work I asked myself? So, I left College, and got a job in a bank, being determined to study alongside work from the outset. I still remember how difficult a transition that was for me. Long working days, thinking for myself, dealing with the public; I felt I had entered a whole new world and was completely unprepared. It is common to hear criticisms of young people being unprepared for work, but I sometimes wonder if our memories are short. Being ‘green around the ears’ when you’re young is normal, and as employers, we often prefer to pay more and have someone do the job without any training, than
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
invest time and energy in people development. Somehow we need to break this cycle. Through working, alongside study, I became a qualified accountant by the time my friends were graduating from university, but I had six years’ experience of the world of work to draw upon. Don’t get me wrong, graduates are incredibly valuable to our economy and we need more of them in key employment areas. But my experience has shaped my thinking and made me determined to create a college that is as closely matched to the world of work and economy as is possible. A second big moment came a few weeks after I joined Middlesbrough College as a vice principal charged with creating the new College at Middlehaven. A consultant passed me a report detailing what should be included in the new ‘Middle haven College’. It suggested significantly reducing construction and engineering provision and massively expanding service sectors such as hair and catering. We didn’t agree. So, we set about organising a major expansion programme for our construction and engineering provision.
E XPE RT OP INION
Middlesbrough College
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
and funded by one Government department, I fear we will not have a clear strategy for education and skills in the UK. In addition, Colleges received 20% less funding per student than schools and half of the amount per student of Universities. Everyone is talking about skills and yet, Further Education is the least funded of all of the education sectors. Finally, I would love to see more incentives for employers to take on young people. When Teesside lost its large industries, we lost the ‘supply chain’ of work based training. Now, young people are expected to be work-ready without any real opportunity to learn ‘on the job’. We have 4,500 full time students in Middlesbrough College and around 800 Apprentices. I would love to see these numbers reversed in five years’ time. Young people and businesses are losing out and for me this is where the Government needs to step in. Until then, I am proud to play a part in shaping our skills system to meet the needs of employers and our economy. Middlesbrough College is committed to do this, despite the barriers and challenges we face. For UK plc, we don’t have any other choice.
21 |
Middlesbrough College is now the largest provider of City and Guilds engineering training in the country and is expanding into process/oil and gas, logistics, manufacturing, and medical sciences through our new STEM Centre, designed by industry for industry and opening September 2015. The centre will operate like a working factory and includes shift and time and attendance systems. Our full-time student numbers have grown by 66% in the last seven years and our apprenticeship numbers have doubled for the second time in 12 months. We have certainly widened the pipeline of skilled young people in key shortage areas over recent years and I am proud of what we have achieved through listening to employers. However, the UK education system inhibits our ability to do more. Colleges are independent institutions, but they are regulated through the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and largely funded through the Department for Education (DfE). They each pull in different directions; the DfE wanting academic/exam-based rigour and BIS wanting skills development and work-readiness. Until colleges are run, regulated
E X PERT O P IN IO N
22 | APPRENTICEGREATS Sona Singh Coast & Country Housing Ltd Redcar
E XPE RT OP INION
FROM THE SHOP FLOOR TO THE BOARDROOM Andrew Robson, head of training operations at NECC, explores the role apprentices play in North East business
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
apprenticeships offer a double win, providing companies with a means of training people to fill specific roles, helping the individual and the business to develop together. The businesses we work with tell us that apprenticeships are an ideal way to recruit and develop skilled workers who can be moulded to meet business needs. Apprenticeships bring considerable value to employers, individuals, and the economy as a whole, and NECC plays an integral role in future-proofing the workforce. All the people included in this publication earned their stripes on the shop floor. They all walked into work as a young apprentice feeling awkward and raw, but within a few weeks the seed that would see them climb through the ranks had been planted. It is important that young people in the North East know there are opportunities and that taking that first step on the ladder is always the hardest. The more businesses which engage with this agenda, the more we will upskill our workforce, which will mean more productivity, more jobs and, in a decade or so, more former apprentices in our boardrooms and directors’ suites.
23 |
There is something incredibly satisfying about the boardrooms of the North East being filled with senior management who started life on the bottom rung of the ladder. These leaders of North East industry, who are responsible for the livelihoods of thousands of workers, were once as green and untested as the region’s current crop of apprentices. It is with pride that these leaders will say, “I started out as an apprentice”, and while I wouldn’t profess to be among this elite, I too started my working life as a welding apprentice. Apprenticeships provide the keen young workers who will become the future workforce of the region and ensure that new ideas and enthusiasm continuously circulate around businesses. Following a dip in the late 1980s and 90s, apprenticeships are popular again, bringing back valuable opportunities for young people to earn while they learn. Accountancy, dental care, CAD design, administration, construction...you name it and the chances are there’s an NECC apprentice doing it. As well as training the future workforce,
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
LOUISE BALL
A GREAT PLACE TO START 24 |
An apprenticeship can provide the springboard to a great career, as the 200 people profiled on the following pages prove
APPRENTICEGREATS
DAWN BEANEY
Apprenticeship: Business Administration & Customer Service Current Role: General Manager Company: Berendsen Uk Ltd Location: Durham Website: www.berendsen.co.uk
NIGEL BEGG
Apprenticeship: Quality Assurance and IT Current Role: Managing Director Company: Aspire Technology Solutions Ltd Location: Gateshead Website: www.aspirets.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
MARTIN BRASS
Apprenticeship: Electrical Installation & Maintenance Current Role: Engineering & Maintenance Manager Company: Biffa Polymers Location: Redcar Website: www.biffa.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Operations Director Company: Baltic Training Services Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.baltictraining.com
BRYAN BUNN
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineer Current Role: Managing Director Company: Nortech Group Location: Billingham Website: www.nortech-solutions.co.uk
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
TARA ALLEN Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Managing Director Company: Direct Recruitment Location: Newcastle Website: www.direct-recruit.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
”My apprenticeship was invaluable; I couldn’t have progressed with the same momentum if I had chosen higher education or work experience”
25 |
Too few young people are encouraged to enrol on apprenticeships. Higher education can leave candidates lacking practical experience, which is why I’m involved in an Employer Mentoring Programme with Gateshead College to inspire young people to focus on employability skills as well as academic achievements.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
SUSAN BURLISON
26 |
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: UKI Country Contractor Channel Lead Company: IBM Location: Leeds Website: www.ibm.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
CHRIS CHARLTON
Apprenticeship: Management Current Role: Operations Manager Company: Utilitywise Location: Newcastle Website: www.utilitywise.com
GAVIN CAPE
Apprenticeship: HGV/PSV Fitter Current Role: Business Development Director Company: Heathline Commercials Limited Location: Cramlington Website: www.truckservice.co.uk
DARREN CLOUGH
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Director Company: Design on Demand Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.designondemand.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
MATT CARRY
Apprenticeship: Print Originator Current Role: Sales Director Company: Acorn Web Offset Limited Location: Normanton Website: www.acornweb.co.uk
LINDEN COOK
Apprenticeship: Care Current Role: Deputy Chief Executive Company: ONE Awards Location: Peterlee Website: www.oneawards.org.uk
CAROL CHARLTON
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Director Company: Executype PA Limited Location: Wallsend Website: www.executypepa.com
ISOBEL CURRIE
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Director Company: Communicators Training Associates Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.communicatorsltd.co.uk
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
LEISA DOCHERTY Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Chief People Officer Company: Sage Location: Newcastle Website: www.sage.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
”You get out of it what you put in, so if businesses make it work and get quality candidates, it’s a fantastically rewarding programme”
27 |
Businesses might view it as an overhead, but apprentices can be well worth the investment and add considerable value. While the employer needs to provide structure and support for apprenticeships, they are rewarded with loyal, skilled and proactive employees who provide long-term value.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
BRIAN DAKERS
28 |
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: International Trade Manager Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
JULIA EVANS
Apprenticeship: Hairdressing Current Role: Operations Manager Company: Shape Training Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.shapetraining.co.uk
MICHELLE DAVIES
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Financial Controller Company: Your Energy Advisor Ltd Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.yourenergyadvisor.com
LYNSEY FAIRLESS
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Senior Account Manager Company: NECC Location: Newcastle Website: www.necc.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
PAUL DOUGHERTY
Apprenticeship: Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Blaydon Communications Limited Location: Blaydon Website: www.blaydoncomms.co.uk
DAVE FENWICK
Apprenticeship: Fitter Current Role: Regional Manager Operations Asia Pacific Company: PII Pipeline Solutions Location: Cramlington Website: www.geoilandgas.com
HAYLEY DUNN
Apprenticeship: Business Administration & Management Current Role: Resource Manager Company: Osborne Training Services Location: Cramlington Website: www.osbornetrainingservices.com
MARK GALE
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Operations Manager Company: MRC Transmark Limited Location: Seaham Website: www.transmark-fcx.com
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
BETH FARHAT Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Regional Secretary Company: Trade Union Congress Location: Newcastle Website: www.tuc.org.uk
”Apprenticeships are an effective way for young people to earn while learning and one of the best routes for employers to nurture and retain talent”
APPRENTICEGREATS
My apprenticeship with a small publishing company was an excellent starting point to move into management. It sparked a love of lifelong learning and I went on to complete an HND in Business, Prince 2 Project Management, Contemporary Trade Unionism and Chartered Management Institute level 5 in Management, to name a few.
29 |
I chose my apprenticeship because it offered a combination of qualifications and the chance to put what I was learning into practice.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
KELLY GASTON
30 |
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Regional Manager Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
DR STAN HIGGINS
Apprenticeship: Laboratory Technician Current Role: CEO Company: NEPIC Location: Sunderland Website: www.nepic.co.uk
MICHAEL HENNING
Apprenticeship: Quantity Surveyor Current Role: Director Company: Henning Project Management Location: Newcastle Website: www.henningpm.co.uk
FRED HOULT
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Director Company: Hoults Location: Newcastle Website: www.houltsyard.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
NEIL HENRY
Apprenticeship: Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Current Role: Director Company: HLA Services Ltd Location: Boldon Website: www.hlaservices.co.uk
TIM HUTCHINSON
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Fitter Current Role: Director Company: Returnable Packaging Solutions Ltd and Outpace Ltd Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.rpsltd.com www.outpace.co.uk
ALAN HERRON
Apprenticeship: Electrical Current Role: Electrical Projects Manager Company: Henry Williams Ltd Location: Darlington Website: www.hwilliams.co.uk
OWEN INGRAM
Apprenticeship: Welding & Fabrication Current Role: Managing Director Company: Global Manufacturing Supplies Location: Prudhoe Website: www.gms-uk.com
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RVICE S
CRAIG HART Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Management Accountant - winner of the Employee of the Year Award at the NE Accountancy Awards Company: Aspire Technology Solutions Limited Location: Gateshead Website: www.aspirets.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
”Apprenticeships are a fantastic route for young people to learn and mature while earning. The years of experience you gain, as well as the qualifications, put you way ahead of graduates”
31 |
I chose an accounting apprenticeship to learn about business first hand and go into work rather than studying business from a book. I got on-thejob training and received academic qualifications at the same time.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
PAUL JACKSON
32 |
Apprenticeship: Printer Current Role: Principal Company: One Cool Planet Location: Middlesbrough Website: n/a
APPRENTICEGREATS
STUART LYNN
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Chief Technology Officer, Sage UK and Ireland Company: Sage Group PLC Location: Gosforth Website: www.sage.co.uk
STEVEN KEPPIE
Apprenticeship: Information Technology Current Role: Divisional Director Company: Brewin Dolphin Location: Newcastle Website: www.brewin.co.uk
AMMAR MIRZA CBE
Apprenticeship: Business & Finance Current Role: Owner Company: AmmarM (UK) Limited Location: Newcastle Website: www.ammarm.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
EAMONN LEAVEY
Apprenticeship: Retail Current Role: Head of NECC Presidents Club Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
ALAN MOODY
Apprenticeship: Electrical Current Role: Managing Director Company: A W M Alarms Ltd Location: Sunderland Website: www.awm-alarms.com
KELLY LEE
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Managing Director Company: KF Training Location: Peterlee Website: www.kftraining.co.uk
PHILL MOORE
Apprenticeship: Management Current Role: Operations Manager Company: Utilitywise Location: Newcastle Website: www.utilitywise.com
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
SANDRA NORMAN
Apprenticeship: General Engineering Current Role: General Manager Company: Johnsons Apparelmaster Location: Gateshead Website: www.jsg.com
KELLY PATTISON
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Head of Quality Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Shipbuilding Draughtsman Current Role: Director Company: Nortech Group Location: Billingham Website: www.nortech-solutions.co.uk
STEVE PEARSON
Apprenticeship: Instrument Artificer Current Role: Executive Chairman Company: Phusion IM Ltd Location: Billingham Website: www.phusionim.com
KIM OLIVER
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Management Accountant Company: The Workcast Corporation Limited Location: Durham Website: www.workcast.com
MARTIN PLEWS
Apprenticeship: Fitter/Turner Current Role: Service Manager Company: Mastercopy Location: Thornaby Website: www.mastercopy.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
DEREK OVERTON
Apprenticeship: Business Administration/Office Junior Current Role: Performance Director Company: KF Training Location: Peterlee Website: www.kftraining.co.uk
WILLIAM O’NEIL
33 |
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Director Company: Kelburn Recruitment Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.kelburn.com
SARA O’BRIEN
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
STEPHEN PLEWS
34 |
Apprenticeship: Laboratory Technician Current Role: Managing Director Company: North East Press Location: Sunderland Website: www.sunderlandecho.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
CHRISTOPHER ROBSON
Apprenticeship: Information Technology Current Role: Admin Manager Company: Brewin Dolphin Location: Newcastle Website: www.brewin.co.uk
ALAN PURVIS
Apprenticeship: Marine Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: MetroMail Ltd Location: Seaham Website: wwww.metromail.co.uk
ANDREW ROBSON
Apprenticeship: Welder / Fabricator Current Role: Head of Training Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
LEE RANKIN
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Gem Premium People Recruitment Location: Newcastle Website: www.gempartnership.com
PETER ROSSI
Apprenticeship: Ship’s Draughtsman Current Role: Senior Project Manager Company: Nortech Group Location: Billingham Website: www.nortech-solutions.co.uk
KARL REID
Apprenticeship: Laboratory Technician Current Role: Technical Director Company: Pattinson Scientific Services Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.pattinsonscientific.com
ALASTAIR RUFFMAN
Apprenticeship: Travel Agent Current Role: Managing Director Company: Norseman Travel Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.norsemantravel.com
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
ANDREW ROWE Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Director Company: Evolution Business and Tax Advisors LLP Location: Wynyard Website: www.evolutionllp.com
”Further education isn’t for everyone, and an apprenticeship is a great way to gain training and experience in the workplace, which is just as important”
APPRENTICEGREATS
Apprentices need to be punctual, work hard, listen, and not be afraid to ask questions. Have the confidence to have an opinion - you may be able to suggest improvements.
35 |
I wanted to gain a qualification without having to wait until after college and university, and the AAT accounting technician apprenticeship was a relatively new way of getting into the profession.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: BU S I N E SS & P RO F E SSIONAL SE RVIC E S
MARK SCANDLE
36 |
Apprenticeship: Accountancy Current Role: Territory Manager Company: Country Landowners Association Location: Hexham Website: www.cla.org.uk
DEREK SCOTT
Apprenticeship: Electronic Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Consultive Solutions Ltd Location: Chester-le-Street Website: www.consultivesolutions.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
CARL SWANSBURY
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Partner – Corporate Finance Company: Ryecroft Glenton Location: Newcastle Website: www.ryecroft-glenton.co.uk
PHIL SCOTT
Apprenticeship: IT & Computing Current Role: Quality Assurance Manager Company: RIBA Enterprises Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.ribaenterprises.com
DR MICK THURLBECK
Apprenticeship: Draughtsman Current Role: Managing Director Company: Stapleton International Location: Singapore Website: www.stapletonint.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
PAUL STONEBANKS
Apprenticeship: Thermal Insulation Engineer Current Role: Managing Director Company: Advanced Industrial Solutions Ltd Location: North Shields Website: www.aisgroup.co.uk
AMANDA VANEK
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Regional Manager Skills Development Company: NECC Location: Durham Website: www.necc.co.uk
AP P R E NT IC E PROF ILE : BU SINE SS & PROF E SSIONAL SE RV ICE S
DAVE RUDDY Apprenticeship: Laboratory Technician Current Role: Managing Director Company: Biochemica UK Ltd Location: Billingham Website: www.biochemica.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
”Organisations employing apprentices benefit from increased productivity, investment in skills, and a dedicated workforce. Individuals benefit from training and learning in a professional environment with the security of a job and a career head start”
37 |
My apprenticeship proved invaluable and helped me to get where I am today. In today’s jobs market there is huge emphasis on experience and skills. Make the most of opportunities which allow you to gain skills and experience, whether through an apprenticeship or work experience.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
STUART BAINBRIDGE
38 |
Apprenticeship: Quality Engineering Current Role: Supplier Quality Specialist Company: 3M United Kingdom Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.3M.com
CHRIS BEHRENS
Apprenticeship: Process Apprentice Current Role: Engineering Manager Company: Quorn Foods Location: Stokesley Website: www.quorn.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
Port of Tyne is the UK’s number one vehicle port for exports and the seventh largest vehicle handling port in Europe
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
GARETH BERRY
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Vice President Global EMS Company: Electrolux Location: Stockholm Website: www.electrolux.com
JIM CAIRNS
Apprenticeship: Shipbuilder Current Role: Director Company: Induction Pipe Bending UK Ltd Location: Washington Website: www.inductionbending.co.uk
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : MANU FAC T URING
KEVIN FITZPATRICK Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Technician Current Role: Vice President UK Manufacturing Operations Company: Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK Ltd Location: Washington Website: www.nissan-europe.com
39 | APPRENTICEGREATS
“My apprenticeship was the best route for me to learn practical skills and earn academic qualifications. It gave me practical knowledge, vocational skills, qualifications and the life skills necessary for management”
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
ADRIAN CHARLTON
40 |
Apprenticeship: Mechanic Current Role: Quality Assurance Director Company: Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK Ltd Location: Washington Website: www.nissan-europe.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
MIKE DELROY
Apprenticeship: Electronic/Electrical Current Role: Head of Remediation and Technical Advisor Company: Sanofi Location: Newcastle Website: www.sanofi.com
GARY CONROY
Apprenticeship: Instrument Electrical Current Role: Site Director Company: Huntsman Pigments Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.huntsman.com
ANDY DRAKE
Apprenticeship: Motor Mechanic Current Role: Production Director Company: Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK Ltd Location: Washington Website: www.nissan-europe.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
JOHN CRUDDACE
Apprenticeship: Toolmaker Current Role: Director - Plant Operations Company: Unipres UK Ltd Location: Sunderland Website: www.unipres.co.jp/english
GEOFF FORD
Apprenticeship: Articled Clerkship (Accountancy) Current Role: Chairman Company: Ford Aerospace & Ford Component Manufacturing Location: South Shields Website: www.ford-aerospace.com
JEROME DARDILLAC
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: TME Hydraulics Location: Ryton Website: www.tmehydraulics.com
DAVID FORRESTOR
Apprenticeship: Engraver Current Role: Sales Director Company: Astley Location: Gateshead Website: www.astley-uk.com
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : MANU FAC T URING
PHIL HANDLEY Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Caterpillar Peterlee Location: Peterlee Website: www.cat.com
An apprenticeship is a fantastic way to transition from school into work.
APPRENTICEGREATS
“Never think you know everything - every day brings an opportunity to learn. Life is a marathon not a sprint, so don’t expect to be at the top of the tree from the start; take your time and gather experience”
41 |
My course gave me skills and knowledge that I could transfer and taught me a structured approach to tackling different problems. It also set me up for lifelong learning. During my career I changed disciplines and completed an HNC in Electrical Electronic Engineering, a business diploma with Nene University and an MBA with Durham University. I also gained qualifications in HR while living in the US.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
KEVIN FOWLES
42 |
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: General Manager Company: Romec Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.romec.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
STEVEN HEAP
Apprenticeship: Valve Technician Current Role: Managing Director Company: Evolution Valves Ltd Location: Stockton Website: www.evolutionvalves.co.uk
STEVE FRANCE
Apprenticeship: Welding Current Role: Operations Director Company: SSI UK Location: Redcar Website: www.ssi-steel.co.uk
ALAN HEPPLE
Apprenticeship: Electrician Current Role: Managing Director Company: Hepple Engineering Location: Newcastle Website: www.hepple-engineering.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
GARY GRAHAM
Apprenticeship: Plater/Technical Engineer Current Role: Managing Director Company: Unipres UK Ltd Location: Sunderland Website: www.unipres.co.jp/english
JOHN HINTON
Apprenticeship: Chemical Analyst Current Role: Head of R&D Operations Company: Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies UK Ltd Location: Billingham Website: www.fujifilmdiosynth.com
TONY GREEN
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Group Financial Controller Company: Green North East Group Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www. impetuswastemanagement.com
MARK HOOPER
Apprenticeship: Electrician Current Role: Managing Director Company: Avoca Consulting Engineers Ltd Location: Durham Website: www.avoca-ce.com
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE APPR : MANU E NTFAC IC ETGURING REATS
AMY LYONS Apprenticeship: Electrical & Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Applications Engineer – Test & Measurement Division Company: Seaward Group Location: Peterlee Website: www.seaward.co.uk
43 |
I was academic and left school with great results. I didn’t want those to go to waste, but I also didn’t want to sit in a classroom for another three years. My apprenticeship allowed me to skip to the good part - into a work environment while learning.
APPRENTICEGREATS
”Never give up on what you want to achieve. When I decided to become an engineering apprentice at 17, some people said that, as a girl, I would never make it. But just as many people, if not more, were positive and supported me in realising my potential”
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
MALCOLM IRVING
44 |
Apprenticeship: Fitter & Turner Current Role: Head of Operations Europe Company: Draeger Safety UK Ltd Location: Blyth Website: www.draeger.com
APPRENTICEGREATS
BILLY MEIJER
Apprenticeship: Fabrication & Welding Current Role: Managing Director Company: Darchem Engineering Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.esterline.com
PETER IVEY
Apprenticeship: Mechanical & Electrical Current Role: CEO Company: BEL Valves Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.belvalves.com
DERRICK MERRINGTON
Apprenticeship: Plater Current Role: Section Manager Company: Caterpillar Peterlee Location: Peterlee Website: www.cat.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
CHRISTOPHER LAWSON
Apprenticeship: Multi-skilled Maintenance Technician Current Role: Assembly Plants & Maintenance Manager Company: Gestamp Tallent Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Web: www.tallent.thyssenkrupp.com
MIKE MEYNELL
Apprenticeship: Electrical Fitter Current Role: Managing Director Company: Carroll and Meynell Transformers Ltd Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.carroll-meynell.com
PETER MAHONEY
Apprenticeship: Patternmaking Current Role: Engineering & Contracts Manager Company: IK-UK Limited Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.ik-worldwide.com
KEITH MILLER
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Fitter Current Role: Managing Director Company: Ecco Finishing Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.eccofinishingsupplies.com
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : MANU FAC T URING
MIKE MATTHEWS MBE Apprenticeship: Toolmaker Mechanical Engineering Current Role: European Operations Officer Nifco Europe and Managing Director Nifco UK Company: Nifco UK Limited / Nifco Europe Location: Eaglescliffe Stockton Website: www.nifcoeu.com
45 | APPRENTICEGREATS
“Young people looking into apprenticeships should think about the sector and its potential longevity. Think about the location as travel is expensive and time-consuming, the quality of training, and most of all, remember the best companies usually take those with the best grades”
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
MICHAEL O’HARE
46 |
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Workshop Manager Company: Tomlinson Hall & Co. Ltd Location: Billingham Website: www.tomlinson-hall.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
STEVE ROSE
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Director Company: Cramlington Precision Forge Ltd Location: Cramlington Website: www.cpfl-tvs.com
KEVIN O’NEIL
Apprenticeship: Maintenance Electrician Current Role: Engineering Director Company: Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK Ltd Location: Washington Website: www.nissan-europe.com
ALLAN SHAW
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Deputy General Manager Company: Cochran Ltd Location: Annan Website: www.cochran.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
TOM RITCHIE
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Group Managing Director Company: Cochran Ltd Location: Annan Website: www.cochran.co.uk
CARALINE ROBINSON
Apprenticeship: Electrical Technician Current Role: Manufacturing Director Company: Husqvarna UK Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.husqvarna.com
Words of wisdom...
”You get out of it what you put in, so if businesses make it work and get quality candidates, it’s a fantastically rewarding programme” Leisa Docherty, Chief People Officer Sage
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: MANU FAC T URING
DAVID SHERWOOD
Apprenticeship: Polymer Apprentice Current Role: Director of Operations Company: NIFCO Location: Eaglescliffe Website: www.nifcoeu.com
DAVID STEEL
Apprenticeship: Draughtsman Current Role: Managing Director Company: Altec Engineering Ltd Location: Durham Website: www.alteceng.co.uk
IAN TEGGERT
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Head of Performance and Technical Services Company: Sanofi Location: Newcastle Website: www.sanofi.com
47 |
Apprenticeship: Toolmaker Current Role: New Projects/ Process Introduction Manager Company: Gestamp Tallent Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.tallent.thyssenkrupp.com/
JOHN SHORT
APPRENTICEGREATS
One in three UK-built cars are made at Nissan in Washington
200 200 OF OF THE THE NORTH NORTH EAST’S EAST’S MOST MOST SUCCESSFUL SUCCESSFUL LEADERS LEADERS
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: M AN U FAC T U R I N G
MAUREEN JAMIESON Apprenticeship: Information Technology Current Role: Finance Director Company: CMR (UK) Limited Location: Wallsend Website: www.cmr-group.com
48 | APPRENTICEGREATS
Rather than going into sixth form I wanted to get into work and gain real experience. My apprenticeship gave me the chance to develop skills and experience while earning some money. I was lucky to get an excellent work placement to complete my apprenticeship and then progress in the organisation.
“Think carefully about what you want and don’t feel you need to stay in further education. Look at the wide range of quality apprenticeships on offer and go down the route that suits you best”
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: CONST R U C T ION & PROP ERTY
STEWART BEEDLE
ALAN BROWN
Apprenticeship: Blacksmith Current Role: Manufacturing Cell Leader, Subsea Systems Company: GE Oil & Gas Uk Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.ge.com/oilandgas
Apprenticeship: Scaffolder Current Role: Health & Safety Director Company: Home Group Location: Gosforth Website: www.homegroup.org.uk
JOHN CRAGGS
Apprenticeship: Housing Management Current Role: Deputy Chief Executive Company: Gentoo Group Location: Sunderland Website: www.gentoogroup.com
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Director Company: Durable Technologies Ltd Location: Hartlepool Website: www.durabletechnologies.com
JOHN DAVIES
Apprenticeship: Engineer Current Role: Managing Director Company: Esh Construction Location: Durham Website: www.esh.uk.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
WAYNE COLE
Apprenticeship: Sheetmetal Worker Current Role: Radan Manager Company: CA Group Ltd Location: Bishop Auckland Website: www.cagroupltd.co.uk
LORRAINE CARTER
49 |
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Financial Controller Company: Ryder Architecture Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.ryderarchitecture.com
TONY BRAIN
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: CO N ST R U C T I O N & PROPE RT Y
JEANETTE HENDERSON Apprenticeship: Office Administration Current Role: Financial Director Company: Gus Robinson Developments Ltd Location: Hartlepool Website: www.gusrobinson.com
50 | APPRENTICEGREATS
I joined Gus Robinson Developments as an office assistant while studying one day a week at Hartlepool College. I was encouraged to turn my job into a career and my role covered roles including promotions executive, PA to the MD, and accounts manager. I became company accountant and then finance director. I was also made a company director in 2014. All this stems from my apprenticeship.
“A good apprenticeship can be the start to progressing through the ranks. It’s a real investment by your company in your future”
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : CONST R U C T ION & PROPERTY
DAVID FLEWKER
Apprenticeship: Bricklayer Current Role: Head of Maintenance Operations Company: Coast and Country Housing Location: Redcar Website: www.cch-online.org.uk
DR COLIN HERRON
Apprenticeship: Engineering Craftsmanship Current Role: Managing Director Company: Zero Carbon Futures Location: Sunderland Website: www.zerocarbonfutures.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Manufacturing & Electronics Current Role: Director of Procurement Company: Home Group Location: Gosforth Website: www.homegroup.org.uk
LINDA HOBBS
Apprenticeship: Technician Current Role: Business Development Manager - HPI for UK and Ireland Company: Promat UK Ltd Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.promat.co.uk
CRAIG HATTON
Apprenticeship: Retail Current Role: Director Company: Cable Industrial Ltd Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.cableindustrial.co.uk
ROBERT HOLT
Apprenticeship: Carpentry & Joinery Current Role:Managing Director Community Services Company: Carillion Services Ltd Location: Gosforth Website: www.carillionplc.com
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
STEVE HEALEY
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Head of Bids & Partnerships Company: Home Group Location: Gosforth Website: www.homegroup.org.uk
TONY GREEN
51 |
Apprenticeship: Carpentry & Joinery Current Role: Divisional Director Company: Interserve Construction Limited Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.Interserve.com
JOANNE GORDON
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: CO N ST R U C T I O N & PROPE RT Y
BRIAN MANNING Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering Technician Current Role: Group Chief Executive Company: Esh Group Location: Durham Website: www.esh.uk.com
52 | APPRENTICEGREATS
My apprenticeship gave me the chance to work on sites across the North East from day one, and this, alongside day release at college, gave me a great understanding of the construction industry.
“Today, Esh Group has around 80 apprentices across the business, from construction trades to administration and finance. These apprentices are essential to futureproofing the business”
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : CONST R U C T ION & PROPERTY
FRANK LINCOLN
Apprenticeship: Administration & Business; Architectural Technician Current Role: Planning Director Company: Lugano Developments Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www.luganogroup.co.uk
LIAM MURRAY
Apprenticeship: Draughtsman Current Role: Estimating Manager Company: European Roofing Systems Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.europeanroofing.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Brickwork Current Role: Director of Operations Company: Derwentside Homes Location: Stanley Website: www.derwentsidehomes.co.uk
GAVIN RICHARDSON
Apprenticeship: Electrical Current Role: Managing Director Company: OPUS Building Services Location: Boldon Website: www.opusbuildingservices.co.uk
DONNA MIDDLETON
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Director of Customer Experience Company: Home Group Location: Gosforth Website: www.homegroup.org.uk
WAYNE RICHARDSON
Apprenticeship: Electrical Installation Current Role: Managing Director Company: Revolution Power Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.revolutionpower.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
SCOTT MUNRO
Apprenticeship: Procurement Current Role: Managing Director Company: Environmental Construction Solutions Ltd Location: Cramlington Website: www.ecs-sales.co.uk
STEPHEN MELVIN
53 |
Apprenticeship: Carpentry & Joinery Current Role: Production Director Company: Story Homes Location: Carlisle Website: www.storyhomes.co.uk
PAUL MASON
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: CO N ST R U C T I O N & PROPE RT Y
ALISON THAIN OBE Apprenticeship: Management Current Role: Group Chief Executive Company: Thirteen Group Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.thirteengroup.co.uk
“Apprenticeships are 54 |
a vital part of growing
APPRENTICEGREATS
our business. My management apprenticeship offered a lot of flexibility and was a fantastic start to understanding the workings of a big council. I made some lifelong connections through it”
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : CONST R U C T ION & PROPERTY
JOHN SAYERS
Apprenticeship: Plumbing Heating Engineer Current Role: Managing Director Company: EHL UK Building Maintenance & Facilities Services Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.ehluk.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Electrical Current Role: Electrical Manager/Electrician Company: Switch!Electrics Location: Middlesbrough Website: (See Facebook)
BRIAN TRODDEN
Apprenticeship: Building Technician Current Role: Technical Director Company: Story Homes Location: Carlisle Website: www.storyhomes.co.uk
STEPHEN WILKIE
Apprenticeship: Quantity Surveyor Current Role: Regional Managing Director - North East Company: Esh Group Location: Durham Website: www.esh.uk.com
Apprenticeship: Plumbing & Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Neighbourhood Manager Company: Thirteen Group Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.thirteengroup.co.uk
MICHELLE WRIGHT
Apprenticeship: Clerical Assistant Current Role: Head of Communications & Campaigns Company: Thirteen Group Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.thirteengroup.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
GARY WAKE
IAN STOREY
55 |
Apprenticeship: Slater/Tiler Current Role: Managing Director Company: Hodgson Sayers Ltd Location: Stanley Website: www.hodgson-sayers.co.uk
GARY STAINSBY
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: CO N ST R U C T I O N & PROPE RT Y
PETER WALLS Apprenticeship: Housing Manager Current Role: Chief Executive Company: Gentoo Group Location: Sunderland Website: www.gentoogroup.com
56 | APPRENTICEGREATS
Apprenticeships offer people of all ages the opportunity to realise their aspirations, improve their prospects and discover exciting careers Companies like Gentoo are aiming to provide a talented new workforce which will continue to contribute to the economy for years to come.
“My apprenticeship put me on the road to becoming the leader I am today. Being able to put into practice immediately what I learned in the classroom was a real benefit�
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: PU BL IC SEC TOR & HE ALT H C ARE
LAURA BEAN
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: Practice Manager Company: The Cosmetic Dental Clinic Ltd Location: Newcastle Website: www thecosmeticdentalclinic.com
MARCUS CLINTON
Apprenticeship: Horse Care Current Role: Principal & Chief Executive Company: Northumberland College Location: Ashington Website: www.northumberland.ac.uk
HELEN DAO
Words of wisdom...
Apprenticeship: ICT Current Role: National Head of Skills Performance Company: Ingeus Location: Gateshead Website: www.ingeus.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Accoutancy (AAT) Current Role: Finance Officer Company: Unity City Academy Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.unityacademy.org.uk
“Seize every opportunity and continue to aim to do something beyond what you have already mastered” Louise Ball, operations director Baltic Training Services
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
MANDY CORBITT
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: Dual Site Practice Manager Company: Oasis Dental Care Location: North Shields Website: www.oasis-healthcare.com
LOREN CHARLTON
57 |
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: Practice Manager Company: Bennison’s Dental Practice Location: Durham Website: www.bennisonsdental.co.uk
DANIELLE BROWN
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: P U B L I C S EC TO R & H E ALT HC AR E
ALLYSON DONOHOE
58 |
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Operations Manager Company: Ingeus Location: Gateshead Website: www.ingeus.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
PETER MITCHELL
Apprenticeship: Electrician Current Role: Deputy Director of Support Services Company: North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.nth.nhs.uk
JEN HILL
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Finance & HR Manager Company: North Shore Academy Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.northshoreacademy.org.uk
BEVERLEY REED
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: Practice Co-ordinator Company: Melita Dental Practice Location: Whitley Bay Website: www.melita-dental.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
KATRINA MCGURRAN
Apprenticeship: Customer Service Current Role: Operation Manager Company: learndirect Location: Darlington Website: www.learndirect.com
SAMANTHA MCQUILLIN
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: GPT and Clinical Coordinator Company: Health Education North East Location: Durham Website: www.ne.hee.nhs.uk
Words of wisdom...
“A career is a long time and although the pressure is there to make money now, finding what is right for you is more rewarding and the financial rewards will follow” Derek Scott, MD Consultative Solutions Ltd
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: PU BL IC SEC TOR & HE ALT H C ARE
KIRSTY ROBSON
Apprenticeship: Housing Management Current Role: Chief Executive Company: Stockton On Tees Borough Council Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.stockton.gov.uk
DONNA SMITH
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: FacIlities Manager Company: Actes Trust Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.acklam-green-centre.com
LEN STULE
Apprenticeship: Ships Draughtsman Current Role: Director of External Funding Company: South Tyneside College Location: South Tyneside Website: www.stc.ac.uk
59 |
Apprenticeship: Dental Nursing Current Role: Practice Manager Company: IDH Location: Jarrow Website: www.idh.co.uk
NEIL SCHNEIDER
APPRENTICEGREATS
COUN PAUL WATSON
Apprenticeship: Shipwright Current Role: Leader of the Council Company: Sunderland City Council Location: Sunderland Website: www.sunderland.gov.uk
Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital will be the first purpose-built hospital of its kind in the country 200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: T R AN S P O RT & I N F RAST R U C T U R E
RAY BALDWIN
60 |
Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Company Maintenance Manager Company: Northumbrian Water Location: Durham Website: www.nwl.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
JERRY HOPKINSON
Apprenticeship: Management Current Role: Managing Director, Bulks and Port Services Company: PD Ports Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.pdports.co.uk
KEVIN CARR
Apprenticeship: Electrical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Go North East Location: Gateshead Website: www.simplygo.com
JAMES CLEGG
Apprenticeship: Mining Current Role: Corporate Manager Health, Safety, Environment & Quality Company: Nexus Location: Newcastle Website: www.nexus.org.uk
DAN HARDESTY
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Management Accountant Company: Univar Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.univar.com
Words of wisdom...
“Structured training and skill development in a safe environment is priceless. Seize the opportunity with both hands and show your employer you mean business. A can-do attitude will get you ahead of the pack, so put your hand up for extra work or responsibilities” Lee Rankin, MD, GEM Partnership Ltd
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : T R ANSPORT & INF R AST R U C TURE
NEIL BLAGBURN Apprenticeship: Fitter (Traction) Current Role: Head of Renewals Company: Nexus Location: Newcastle Website: www.nexus.org.uk
“I started as an apprentice fitter and now manage projects worth £40m a year”
APPRENTICEGREATS
When times are hard, many companies don’t want apprentices. Then, when the economy picks up, they struggle to find the skills they need at a cost they are willing to pay. Skills gaps are widening as skilled people near retirement. The only way to close the gaps is through succession management, and apprenticeships have a key role to play.
61 |
I was set on joining the Army as an Aircraft Technician. Then Metro apprenticeship testing came up and I was offered one of just three apprenticeships - I couldn’t say no.
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: T R AN S P O RT & I N F RAST R U C T U R E
RAYMOND JOHNSTONE
62 |
Apprenticeship: Electrical & Electronic Engineering Current Role: Director of Rail and Infrastructure Company: Nexus Location: Newcastle Website: www.nexus.org.uk
MIKE NICHOLSON
Apprenticeship: Deck Officer in Merchant navy (Cadetship) Current Role: Harbour Master Company: Port of Tyne Location: South Shields Website: www.portoftyne.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
Newcastle International Airport serves more than 4m passengers annually
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
SUSAN WEAR
Apprenticeship: Journalist Current Role: Director of Corporate Affairs Company: Port of Tyne Location: South Shields Website: www.portoftyne.co.uk
STEWART WINGATE
Apprenticeship: Electrical & Mechanical Current Role: Chief Executive Officer Company: Gatwick Airport Location: London Website: www.gatwickairport.com
APPR E NT IC E PROF ILE : T R ANSPORT & INF R AST R U C TURE
DAVID LAWS Apprenticeship: Firefighter Current Role: Chief Executive Company: Newcastle International Airport Location: Newcastle Website: www.newcastleairport.com
without our people, and apprentices are the lifeblood of our business and key to our future prosperity. We need more business leaders to value apprenticeships”
APPRENTICEGREATS
“We are nothing
63 |
I chose my apprenticeship to get started on the aviation career path. It was the start of an exciting journey which has led to being chief executive of Newcastle International Airport.
AP PR ENT I CEP RO F I LE : T R AN S P O RT & I N F RAST R U C T U R E
CLAIRE SHARP Apprenticeship: Distribution Technician Current Role: Customer Director Company: Northumbrian Water Location: Durham Website: www.nwl.co.uk
64 | APPRENTICEGREATS
I dropped out of sixth form because I wanted to work and I secured a traineeship with Northumbrian Water. It allowed me to gain diverse experience, working my way up to management roles in operations, leisure, organisation development, marketing and communications, distribution, and customer service. I also studied for an Honors Degree in Business and a Masters in Leadership.
“Investment in apprenticeships makes a positive difference to the economy and employability. They are platforms on which to build careers �
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: WHOL E SAL E & R ETAIL
PETER ATKINSON
Apprenticeship: Technician Current Role: CMA Aftersales Manager Company: Benfield Motor Group Location: Newcastle Website: www.benfieldcorporatemotoring.com
JAMES CARROLL
Apprenticeship: Bakery Operations Current Role: Bakery Operations Manager Company: Greggs Location: Longbenton Website: www.greggs.co.uk
PETER DRABBLE
Apprenticeship: Electrician Current Role: Centre Manager Company: Hillstreet Shopping Centre Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.hillstreetshopping.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
ALISTAIR JAMESON
Words of wisdom...
Apprenticeship: Toolmaker Current Role: Managing Director Company: Oberlin Filter Ltd Location: Newton Aycliffe Website: www.oberlinfilter.com
65 |
Apprenticeship: Electrical & Electronic Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Teesside Industrial Controls Ltd Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.tic-direct.com
SIMON BARWICK
“Don’t blindly follow what everyone else thinks is right. Consider what is right for you to get the career you want, and then commit to it” Malcolm Massey, owner, TaxAssist Accountants
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: W H O L E SAL E & R E TAIL
ANDREW KELLY
66 |
Apprenticeship: Motor Vehicle Repairs Current Role: Director Company: Charter Self Drive Ltd Location: Darlington Website: www.charterselfdrive.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
STEPHEN TURNBULL
TONY MARSHALL
Apprenticeship: Technical Services Current Role: Corporate Sales Manager Company: Cooper Teesside BMW Location: Stockton on Tees Web: www.cooperteessidebmw.co.uk
TONI NELSON
Apprenticeship: Business Admin Current Role: Customer Engagement Manager Company: Benfield Motor Group Location: Newcastle Website: www.benfieldcorporatemotoring.com
DAVE RENTON
Apprenticeship: Industrial Screen Printing & Graphic Arts Current Role: Proprietor Company: Dave Renton Screen Printing Supplies Location: Gateshead Website: www.nesms.co.uk
ROBERT WALBY
Words of wisdom...
Apprenticeship: Bakery Operations Current Role: Bakery Operations Manager Company: Greggs Location: Longbenton Website: www.greggs.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Bakery Operations Current Role: Senior Bakery Operations Manager Company: Greggs Location: Longbenton Website: www.greggs.co.uk
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
“The apprenticeship eventually saw me gain a Phd even though I didn’t achieve much at school.”
Dr Colin Herron, MD, Zero Carbon Futures (subsidiary of Gateshead College)
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: L E ISU R E , CU LT U R E & TOURIS M
PIERRE BANI
Apprenticeship: Performing Arts Current Role: Composer Company: King Pit Prod Ltd Location: Gateshead Website: www.stuartbrayson.com
JOHN CARVER
Apprenticeship: Footballer Current Role: NUFC Manager Company: Newcastle FC Location: Newcastle Website: www.nufc.co.uk
BEN GIBSON
Apprenticeship: Footballer Current Role: Football Player for MFC and England U21s Company: Middlesbrough FC Location: Middlesbrough Website: www.mfc.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
MARC KOUABLAN
Words of wisdom...
“Start out with an apprenticeship and progress through to university - not the other way around.” Apprenticeship: Professional Cookery Current Role: Sous Chef Company: Love Food Location: Newcastle Website: www.lovefoodltd.co.uk
67 |
Apprenticeship: Tour de France Current Role: UK, Ireland and Channel Islands Representative Company: Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France Location: Newcastle Website: www.compagnons-dudevoir.com
STUART BRAYSON
Amanda Vanek, regional manager, NECC
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
AP PR ENT I CEGR E ATS: L E I S U R E , CU LT U R E & TOU R ISM
MELISSA HOGAN Apprenticeship: Management Current Role: Commercial Manager Company: Sedgefield Racecourse Location: Sedgefield Website: www.sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk
68 | APPRENTICEGREATS
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain experience in the workplace while gaining qualifications and my apprenticeship gave me the confidence and skill set to move onto the next step in my career.
“Take advantage of all the training opportunities your employer offers. It’s never too late to start learning and every qualification looks great on your CV”
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: L E ISU R E , CU LT U R E & TOURIS M
TERRY LAYBOURNE
Apprenticeship: Footballer Current Role: Former NUFC Captain Company: Newcastle FC Location: Newcastle Website: www.nufc.co.uk
JIMMY MONTGOMERY
Apprenticeship: Footballer Current Role: Sunderland AFC Ambassador Company: Sunderland AFC Location: Sunderland Website: www.safc.com
JULIE PIGOTT
Apprenticeship: Business Administration Current Role: Head of Finance and Administration Company: Traverse Theatre Location: Edinburgh Website: www.traverse.co.uk
APPRENTICEGREATS
IAIN WILMSHURST
Words of wisdom...
Apprenticeship: Stone Mason Current Role: Works Yard Manager Company: Durham Cathedral Location: Durham Website: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk
69 |
Apprenticeship: Trainee Chef Current Role: Director Company: 21 Hospitality Group Location: Newcastle Website: www.21hospitality.co.uk
BOB MONCUR
“Be willing, punctual, polite and respect the people you work with. If they like you, they will give you every skill you need” Len Stule, director, South Tyneside College
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENT I CEGR E ATS: L E I S U R E , CU LT U R E & TOU R ISM
GARY HUTCHINSON Apprenticeship: Engineering Current Role: Commercial Director Company: Sunderland AFC Location: Sunderland Website: www.safc.com
70 | APPRENTICEGREATS
I started working at Nissan as part of my work experience at school, going on to work one day a week. While I was there, an opportunity arose to take up an apprenticeship. It was a great starting point for me. Although I didn’t pursue a career in engineering, the lessons have stuck listen to people around you, don’t be afraid to think differently, and achieve your goals through hard work.
“The business community has a responsibility to invest in the skills of the future workforce to generate far-reaching benefits”
APPR E NT IC E G R E ATS: F INAN CIAL
GRANT CALLANDER
Apprenticeship: Accountancy Current Role: IT Director Company: Mullen Stoker Chartered Accountants Location: Durham Website: www.mullenstoker.co.uk
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Paraplanner Company: Active Financial Services Location: Stockton on Tees Website: www.activefinancialservices.co.uk
MALCOLM MASSEY
Apprenticeship: Trainee Production Engineer and Trainee Accountant Current Role: Owner Company: TaxAssist Accountants Location: Durham Website: www.taxassist.co.uk/durham
Words of wisom...
“Work hard and always go that extra mile. A lot of businesses in the North East are owner-managed and the way to impress is either to help to generate new sales or to cut costs and make improvements to processes and drive efficiency” Craig Hart, management accountant Aspire Technology Solutions Ltd 200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
GARY STOKER
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Engineering Current Role: Managing Director Company: Arc Wealth Ltd Location: Darlington Website: www.arc-wealth.com
ANDREW GILMORE
71 |
Apprenticeship: Accountancy (AAT) Current Role: Principal of Grant Callander Wealth Management Company: Grant Callander Wealth Management Location: Newcastle Web: www.sjpp.co.uk/grantcallander
ANDREW CHAMBERS
NECC20 0
72 | APPRENTICEGREATS
CELEBRATING 200 YEARS OF NORTH EAST BUSINESS Throughout 2015, NECC is calling on businesses to join together to celebrate everything that makes the North East great, as well as looking forward to the next 200 years of North East business. Since the first meeting of the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce on January 5, 1815 at the Guildhall in Newcastle the chamber has been a catalyst of positive change for North East business, from the dredging and straightening of the Tyne in 1834 to improvements to the region’s motorway network and the arrival of aviation to the region in the middle of the 20th Century. Skills has been a key area of policy for the chamber, from funding construction projects to launching the 100 Days Apprenticeship Challenge in 2011 in partnership with the National Apprenticeship Service. It remains as much a priority today as it always has, and apprenticeships are central to that. For more on NECC’s 200th anniversary celebrations, including events across the region, go to www.necc.co.uk or use #NECC200 on Twitter
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
N ECC200
1916
Funded a Faculty of Commerce at Armstrong College (Newcastle University) to provide education in business and foreign languages. Chamber members contributed £6486
“We have developed a reputation for world-leading expertise - we need to ensure we have succession plans in place to maintain our position” David Laws, NECC, President
2011
Launched 100 Days Challenge which has since created nearly 8,000 apprenticeships over four years
2015
Published Apprentice Greats showcasing 200 of the North East’s most successful leaders, and inspring employers and young people to consider apprenticeships
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
APPRENTICEGREATS
1984
Teesside Chamber of Commerce establishes the first CadCam (Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing) training scheme in Cleveland
1957
Started a commercial apprenticeship scheme to get young people interested in commerce
73 |
1959
Raised £1,500 to provide lectures to 10-15 year olds to excite their interest in science
1928
Worked with Armstrong College to set up a Faculty of Commercial Research
NECC20 0
200 FORMER APPRENTICES IN THIS BOOK
74 | APPRENTICEGREATS
BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL Tara Allen Louise Ball Dawn Beaney Nigel Begg Martin Brass Bryan Bunn Susan Burlison Gavin Cape Matt Carry Carol Charlton Chris Charlton Darren Clough Linden Cook Isobel Currie Brian Dakers Michelle Davies Leisa Docherty Paul Dougherty Hayley Dunn Julia Evans Lynsey Fairless Beth Farhat Dave Fenwick Mark Gale Kelly Gaston Craig Hart Michael Henning Neil Henry Alan Herron Dr Stan Higgins Fred Hoult Tim Hutchinson Owen Ingram Paul Jackson Steven Keppie
Eamonn Leavey Kelly Lee Stuart Lynn Ammar Mirza CBE Alan Moody Phill Moore Sandra Norman Sara O’Brien William O’Neil Kim Oliver Derek Overton Kelly Pattison Steve Pearson Martin Plews Stephen Plews Alan Purvis Lee Rankin Karl Reid Christopher Robson Andrew Robson Peter Rossi Andrew Rowe Dave Ruddy Alastair Ruffman Mark Scandle Derek Scott Phil Scott Paul Stonebanks Carl Swansbury Dr Mick Thurlbeck Amanda Vanek MANUFACTURING Stuart Bainbridge Chris Behrens Gareth Berry Jim Cairns
Adrian Charlton Gary Conroy John Cruddace Jerome Dardillac Mike Delroy Andy Drake Kevin Fitzpatrick Geoff Ford David Forrestor Kevin Fowles Steve France Gary Graham Tony Green Phil Handley Steven Heap Alan Hepple John Hinton Mark Hooper Malcolm Irving Peter Ivey Maureen Jamieson Christopher Lawson Amy Lyons Peter Mahoney Mike Matthews MBE Billy Meijer Derrick Merrington Mike Meynell Keith Miller Michael O’Hare Kevin O’Neil Tom Ritchie Caraline Robinson Steve Rose Allan Shaw David Sherwood John Short
200 OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL LEADERS
David Steel Ian Teggert
Stephen Wilkie Michelle Wright
CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY Stewart Beedle Tony Brain Alan Brown Lorraine Carter Wayne Cole John Craggs John Davies David Flewker Joanne Gordon Tony Green Craig Hatton Steve Healey Jeanette Henderson Dr Colin Herron Linda Hobbs Robert Holt Frank Lincoln Brian Manning Paul Mason Stephen Melvin Donna Middleton Scott Munro Liam Murray Gavin Richardson Wayne Richardson John Sayers Gary Stainsby Ian Storey Alison Thain OBE Brian Trodden Gary Wake Peter Walls
PUBLIC SECTOR & HEALTHCARE Laura Bean Danielle Brown Loren Charlton Marcus Clinton Mandy Corbitt Helen Dao Allyson Donohoe Jen Hill Katrina McGurran Samantha McQuillin Peter Mitchell Beverley Reed Kirsty Robson Neil Schneider Donna Smith Len Stule Coun Paul Watson TRANSPORT & INFRASTRUCTURE Ray Baldwin Neil Blagburn Kevin Carr James Clegg Dan Hardesty Jerry Hopkinson Raymond Johnstone David Laws Mike Nicholson Claire Sharp Susan Wear Stewart Wingate
WHOLESALE & RETAIL Peter Atkinson Simon Barwick James Carroll Peter Drabble Alistair Jameson Andrew Kelly Tony Marshall Toni Nelson Dave Renton Stephen Turnbull Robert Walby LEISURE, CULTURE & TOURISM Pierre Bani Stuart Brayson John Carver Ben Gibson Melissa Hogan Gary Hutchinson Marc Kouablan Terry Laybourne Bob Moncur Jimmy Montgomery Julie Pigott Iain Wilmshurst FINANCIAL Grant Callander Andrew Chambers Andrew Gilmore Malcolm Massey Gary Stoker
Give your business the competitive edge, take on an Apprentice with Middlesbrough College Why Middlesbrough College? Middlesbrough College are working with more businesses employing Apprentices in more sectors and at more skill levels than ever before. We offer fantastic facilities, expert tuition and dedicated support to help you source the right Apprentice and the right training programme.
Apprenticeships we offer include: Engineering Business & Professional Catering & Hospitality Customer Service Construction Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy
Health & Care IT & Computing Retail Sport & Exercise Teaching Travel & Tourism Visual & Performing Arts
Call our Industry & Community Partnerships Team today on 01642 333322 or Email: icp@mbro.ac.uk Release the potential
www.mbro.ac.uk
Be Part Of It #NECC200
SPONSORED BY:
www.necc.co.uk North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC), Aykley Heads Business Centre Centre, Aykley Heads, Durham, England DH1 5TS 5TS, tel 0300 303 6322, email enquiries@necc.co.uk