Press information

Skills training for Southwater staff

Staff from a Telford events group are developing their management skills, thanks to a joint project with the University of Derby.

The team at Southwater Event Group, which owns The International Centre, have now signed up to a Management Development and Customer Service programme which has been designed specifically for them.

Chief Executive Tom Gray said: “We are currently investing heavily in developing our facilities at The International Centre and at both Grays Hotel and the Holiday Inn.

“So we decided it was also important to invest in our people at the same time to ensure our vision comes to life.

“The new facilities we are creating will include another hotel and additional  flexible event space, so it’s vital our team are ready and well prepared for the increase in business we are expecting.”

The training has been drawn up by the University of Derby business to business team and includes a tailor-made online intranet and training programme, and a skills analysis and leadership development programme.

It will identify the current skills and strengths of each individual in the team, and then create a personal development plan to enhance their skills through a series of on-site workshops.

There will also be a real focus on leadership and customer service, and once the course has been successfully completed, staff will be awarded credits towards university management diplomas.

“Our aim is to further develop the managers and leaders in our workforce, and ensure they have the skills they need to take the business to the next level,” said Tom.

“We are very pleased with the training programme the University of Derby Corporate Team have designed, and how they have interpreted our aims and objectives in such a constructive way.”

Conor Moss, Head of Learning Solutions at UDC, said: “Southwater Event Group realise that the development of higher level skills will be an important factor in delivering their business objectives.

“Using UDC’s services to create the e-learning programme is an investment in the future development of their staff and in the continued health and profitability of the company itself.”

Pic:    Catherine Watson - HR Manager of Southwater Event Group, Tom Gray - CEO of Southwater Event Group, and Conor Moss of Derby University

ENDS/Tic Derby University release/November 10, 2010
For more information contact Rachel Jones, PR Liaison, 01785 823382 or email racheljonespr@aol.com