Building a successful partnership
Working together collaboratively to meet strategic objectives
"It was essential for me to ensure that we weren't simply adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, especially with upcoming changes..."
The team’s journey working with Corndel was positive and collaborative, providing support and clear communication.
Laura Porter, Talent and Development Manager, explains: “I had been in discussions with Corndel for about 9 to 10 months before we actually launched our first cohort. It was essential for me to ensure that we weren't simply adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, especially with upcoming changes. I wanted to make sure that Corndel’s programmes would align perfectly with our business needs. Throughout the enrolment process, the launch phase, and while collaborating with other PDs, I consistently had monthly calls with Charlotte.
During these conversations, we addressed any areas that required attention. Surprisingly, even with all the changes happening, we are starting another cohort in September. I had initially managed my expectations, thinking we might not get as many participants, but to my pleasant surprise, we've attracted a significant number of individuals who want to join.
I can take partial credit for this, but it's also because those currently going through the programme have been speaking positively about it to their peers. Overall, the relationship and communication with Corndel have been exceptional throughout this process."
"At first, I didn't see this as a typical apprenticeship. My current leadership role didn't fit the traditional apprenticeship image, which often involves hands-on, mechanical training – a somewhat outdated perception, I must admit. I looked at it more in terms of the quality of the qualification it would offer.
Over the course of my career, I've heard about many people pursuing MBAs, and I also had that aspiration for a long time. However, due to financial constraints and advice from a former colleague who taught MBA courses, I reconsidered. He pointed out that MBAs were primarily valuable for networking, although they did have valuable content. Instead, he suggested that specialized business courses could sometimes be more beneficial.
Looking back, this programme turned out to be the best of both worlds. It gave me a respected qualification and, even more importantly, provided highly relevant content that directly applied to my professional duties."
Ruth Christie, Product Line Director, James Fisher & Sons