CEO of thriving apprenticeship company stepping down

The chief executive of apprenticeships and work-based training specialist Positive Outcomes is stepping down after steering its growth to a national company of more than 200 people with a turnover in excess of £10.5m.

In eight years Chris Longmate has taken the company from a regional enterprise of 30 staff with a turnover of £1m in the East Midlands to what it is now with offices in Manchester, Derbyshire and Nottingham.

Longmate said: “It’s been a fantastic eight years and Positive Outcomes has evolved beyond all recognition in that time.

“I’m extremely proud of the organisation it’s become today. The business growth is testament to the hard work of the staff throughout the years I’ve been here and I feel privileged to have watched so many of them develop into an experienced and professional team who are a credit to the Positive Outcomes’ brand.

“Having worked in the sector for 8 years, the time is right for me to take on new opportunities.

“I leave the company in the very capable hands of the managing directors, Kelly Ball and Ryan Longmate.

“Positive Outcomes is in an excellent position as one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship providers and, thanks to its structure and highly skilled workforce is well equipped to cope with both the challenges and the opportunities offered by the impending levy and the new chapter in the sector.

“From board directors, to senior and operational management, to delivery, sales and support functions – I am totally confident Positive Outcomes will meet this new challenge head on and continue to thrive.

“I would like to thank each and every one of the staff who I have worked with over the past 8 years. It’s been a privilege and a pleasure, and I look forward to seeing the company’s continued development under new stewardship.”