2016 in review: Steve Braund, Develop Training

Steve Braund, marketing manager at Derby firm Develop Training, looks back at the last 12 months.

What has been your highlight of the year?
For me, it’s been the success of our Industry Skills Forum events, which have brought together key figures across construction, utilities and facilities management to share best practice in addressing the current skills crisis in the UK.

And your lowlight?
As somebody with a background in the music industry, the loss of so many luminaries in popular music (David Bowie, Prince, Lemmy) prompted many a sombre moment throughout the year.

How do you think 2016 will be remembered?
Time will tell, but it’s hard to look beyond the Brexit vote and US election for events that will have long-lasting impact on the world we live in.

Hero of the year (business or otherwise)?
We’ve seen some wonderful sporting successes in 2016 but seeing a Briton achieve the World Number One spot in tennis is something I never thought I’d see, so well done Andy Murray.

And villain?
Philip Hammond. His failure in the Autumn Statement to provide any further guidance on the Apprenticeship Levy – or details about skills development – was disappointing given we’re just a couple of months away from it being introduced.

What’s your New Year’s Resolution?
To embrace the opportunities we at DTL expect to come as a result of the Apprenticeship Levy… and to get fitter!