CAIRN GROUP EXCELS ON EMPLOYEE INVESTMENT

Leisure operator Cairn Group has announced plans to enhance its internal Leadership Development Programme after 34 employees passed with flying colours this summer.

Now in its third year, the programme aims to strengthen, inspire and empower managers developing the group’s future talent and runs as three cohorts in the South and North of England, and Scotland, encompassing its UK-wide workforce across hotels, bars and restaurants.

This year’s graduates took part in five off-the-job learning events with a blend of activities and assignments to complete between each session. The nine month programme culminated with presentations from the learners and certificate giving ceremonies at three of the group’s properties.

The programme has been so well-received with interest at its peak, paving the way for development plans ahead of the next intake of managers in the autumn. Enhancements will see the skills and interactive elements of training expanded through seminars, presentations and group-based activities, which will run over 12 months, an extension of the current nine.

Richard Adams, HR director at Cairn Group, said: “Over the last three years it’s been fantastic to see new leaders progress and reach exciting milestones with the group. The feedback and uptake from our employees has been really positive, and paired with the strong results we are seeing, informed our decision to develop the programme into its second phase which launches later this year.

“Through initiatives like this we are inspiring our next generation of managers who we see as being integral parts of Cairn Group’s future.”

Trevor Bailey, training & development manager at Cairn Group, added: “To date, 70 of our people have graduated from the programme. We’re heavily investing in their development as

we want our employees to see Cairn Group as an employer of choice and build long-lasting, successful careers with us.

“The diversity of the programme allows managers to gain an insight into all aspects of management roles, enhancing their knowledge and allowing them to experience various scenarios they’re likely to face as part of their role. We’ve found that it’s very much the hands-on approach that excites the learners. This mixed with the right blend of independent studies and trainer delivery really brings those working in different cities, hotels and roles within the group together.”

For more information on Cairn Group visit www.cairnhotelgroup.com.

Cairn Group is one of the UK’s premium hotel and bar operators. Today the Group owns and operates a portfolio of hugely successful businesses, including 33 hotels and more than 30 bars and restaurants across the UK from its headquarters in Newcastle upon Tyne.