Executive training provider aiming to hit £1m

CONFERENCE and training provider Salford Professional Development has created an executive education division to meet increasing demand from UK employers.

It has appointed Alison Kennedy to lead the new division as its director, supported by Phil Whitman as head of executive education with Jennie Jacobs and David Daniels spearheading the sales operation.

SPD hopes the division will account for 25% of overall revenues in the firm’s next financial year, equating to more than £1m.
 
Experts from the University of Salford, the Chartered Management Institute, The Pacific Institute, the Institute of Directors and other organisations will provide executive training for leaders and managers in the public, private and voluntary sectors.

Courses will focus on practical skills such as finance, business law and strategic planning, and softer skills such as leadership behaviours, public speaking, negotiation and change management.

SPD chief executive Marc Davis said the move reflects growing demand as UK employers seek to engage their staff more effectively and to retain key talent.

“For organisations to thrive and grow, they must be led with a clear vision and strong leadership ethos,” he said.

“We have developed the new division to equip current and aspiring leaders at every level – from junior managers to chief executives – with the skills they need to succeed.

“In a competitive skills market, it is imperative for employers to engage their staff effectively and develop their potential.

“In addition, there is a trend for the Millennial Generation – those born after 1980 – to be more mobile in the jobs market, which has made it vital for employers to invest in personal development to retain their interest and skillsets.”

Kennedy, a qualified accountant, has been promoted from her role leading SPD’s programme of courses for the Institute of Directors.

Marc said: “With Alison’s keen eye for detail and Phil’s commercial experience, we are looking forward to the executive education division being a huge success.

“It forms a significant part of our overall growth strategy.”

Courses and programmes will be held at the University of Salford and in London. The line-up includes the Certificate in Executive Business Administration along with SPD’s Aspiring Leaders and Aspiring Finance Directors programmes.