‘Continual Learning and Saint-Gobain’ was organised in conjunction with Birmingham City University to recognise and award their successes over the last three years of their professional development. The university has collaborated with Saint-Gobain’s Building Distribution businesses to offer two bespoke programmes to assist employees to enrich their knowledge, boost personal development and be more efficient at work.
Mark Rayfield, CEO of Saint-Gobain Building Distribution, said: "Training and personal development of Saint-Gobain employees is a priority for the business, and it is invaluable for colleagues from Building Distribution to keep in contact and network with each other to forge strong relationships."
Mark continued, "It was a great group of employees and a good agenda. I got a lot out of it and it is clear there is value in keeping this group connected – not only to continue to strengthen the informal network, but also to use it as a chance to both expand training and perhaps do projects or trial initiatives. I’m sure that the success of this group will pave the way for others to follow."
The group of employees have graduated with either a Foundation Degree in Builders Merchanting or a Postgraduate Diploma in Multi-Site Leadership and Strategy. The foundation degree is a blended online/face-to-face programme targeted primarily to the site manager delegates, specifically branch managers and aspiring Assistant Branch Managers. The postgraduate diploma is made up of four face-to-face modules and an in-company project, targeted at current or aspiring area directors and equivalent roles.
The occasion began with a celebration dinner at the Hilton hotel, where a combined networking event and awards ceremony took place. Awards presented included ‘Exceptional Determination and Hard Work’ and ‘Great Achievement and Personal Growth’, commending the hard work and personal achievements of individuals during the studies for the degree. The evening also raised over £300 for Saint-Gobain’s charity partner Macmillan Cancer Support.
The university hosted a conference, comprising interactive workshops and presentations. VIP guests Professor Chris Edger, Director of AMUL, and Mark Rayfield, shared their career and learning experiences from working within the industry.
Jennifer Beattie, graduate and Business Support Analyst at Saint-Gobain Building Distribution, said: "I thoroughly enjoyed the event – the speeches from both guest speakers and those from within the business were really inspiring. It was a fantastic networking opportunity, as well as being a chance to catch up with fellow Foundation Degree graduates from across the country."
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