Small- and medium-sized food and drink businesses are being invited to boost the skills of their workforce through an innovative new leadership and management training programme.
The Higher Level Skills Pathfinder project has been launched by the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink Manufacturing and Manchester Metropolitan University with funding from the North West Universities Association.
The cash injection is being used to develop industry-specific training courses in leadership and business skills for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in food and drink manufacturing. Initially, the project will operate in the north-west of England but will eventually be rolled out across the country.
The new courses will equip small business owners and managers with the skills and expertise to lead and develop their company in order to drive profitability and growth. Employers interested in taking part in the project are being asked to get in touch with the National Skills Academy. Companies already involved include Westmill Foods, Butt Foods, Goodlife Foods and Richard Whittaker.
Clare Keegan, business development manager at the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink Manufacturing, said: “These courses will appeal to company owners who want to enhance their business strategies when managing issues like product and process innovation, new technologies and environmental awareness. The courses will also look at developing commercial skills, in order to tap into new markets, as well as food science and technology skills. Training programmes will be developed with industry so that they are relevant and responsive to the needs of smaller food and drink businesses.
“By working in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University, which has knowledge and access to other universities, colleges and training providers across the North West, we are ensuring that expertise is shared fully so that employers are the ultimate beneficiaries of this new project.”
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