The scheme. now in its second year, unites employees from the shopfloor with senior management, providing a platform for nurturing talent and succession planning.
Baxters said it would be rolling out the ‘Talent for the Future’ initiative across global locations due to its success.
The programme aims to retain employees and promote from within the company. Its focus is to ensure that staff are fully trained with all the skills required to be managers in the food industry.
The programme chose the candidates after a rigorous selection process, which saw them work towards full accreditation for an Institute of Leadership and Management Award as well as a Scottish Vocational qualification in Food and Drink Operations Level 3.
Workshops and assessments
The programme, which was part funded by Skills Development Scotland on its Modern Apprenticeship programme, was delivered through a variety of workshops, in-house assessments and assignments.
Kirstian Findlay, UK HR manager, Baxters Food Group, said: “Talent for the Future is a great way to ensure all of our employees are equipped to deal with the day-to-day challenges faced in the intense and pressurised environment we work in.
Implementing the practical and technical skills specific to the food industry allows us to ensure this happens. Our cross-company learning and senior leadership mentoring programme provides the best possible opportunities for our employees to develop.”
The year-long programme was delivered by Polaris Learning in close partnership with Baxters.
A graduation ceremony was held in the Grand Hall at the Fochabers site.
Challenging programme
Catriona Sloan, managing consultant with Polaris Learning, said: “It is fantastic to see how much both the individuals and the company continue to benefit from the learning experience.
“It is a challenging programme and puts high demands on the candidates not only in enhancing their skills and knowledge but also in self-awareness.
“I am delighted that they have risen to that challenge and have gone above and beyond in enhancing their own development journey.”
The programme is just one of a variety of in-house training programmes being delivered throughout the company. It scooped The Tremendous Training & Development Award at the 2015 cHeRies Awards in recognition of its impact on the business.