CH&Co Group has strengthened its commitment to the training and progression of its employees with a new learning and development team structure and key appointments.
The significant move is part of the business’ focused recruitment and training strategy to attract talent and give all employees the opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge and realise their career ambitions.
The team is responsible for delivering a leadership development programme of bespoke training workshops for everyone from team leaders to operations director; implementing a world-class customer service programme and comprehensive pre-boarding and onboarding for all employees; talent spotting, coaching and mentoring; the CH&Co Group Chef Academy; and apprenticeships.
Heading up the new team are James Godwin, Learning & Development Manager for general training, and Steve Oram, Culinary Learning & Development Manager. They are supported regionally by a newly-formed team of four Learning & Development Trainers.
With strong operational and training expertise, James is responsible for delivering leadership development across CH&Co Group. He has joined the team from Bill’s Restaurants, where he was Training Manager during the casual dining brand’s rapid period of growth.
An experienced chef with a keen eye for spotting culinary talent, Steve is the driving force behind the CH&Co Group Chef Academy and apprenticeships. Steve previously worked for Nestlé Professional as Business Development Chef.
The new regional trainers have been appointed from within CH&Co Group. Formerly site managers within business & industry and commercial catering operations, they have a common desire to motivate and nurture their teams and strong knowledge of the business and the hospitality sector.
The regional trainers are:
- Liam Hatcher, L&D Regional Trainer (London)
- Natalie Williams, L&D Regional Trainer (North)
- Matt Guyan, L&D Regional Trainer (Midlands)
- Jules McEachern, L&D Regional Trainer (South)
Alison Gilbert, Group Human Resources Director for CH&Co Group, said: “Learning and development is fundamental to the success of our business. By giving our people the right support and opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge and progress their careers, we’re investing in the future of the business. The new learning and development team is a crucial part of our ongoing recruitment and retention strategy. It’s no secret that the hospitality industry has a recruitment crisis and we need to be in a strong position to attract and keep talented people. The focused training programmes we offer, together with the potential to progress within our diverse business, enables us to do this. And, with regional trainers now visible and accessible at ground level, our employees know that the support is available to help them develop exciting long-term careers with CH&Co Group.”