The United Kingdom's Edge Hill University welcomed the latest group of managers from the U.K.-based recycling and renewable energy company Viridor to a graduation ceremony earlier in the summer. The managers received the Viridor Foundation Degree, which is accredited by the university.
Initially run in 2012, the training program is designed for managers and supervisors seeking to develop their management and leadership knowledge base and skills.
Starting their journey in March of 2013, the group of 20 Viridor managers from across the business progressed through a program of modules delivered by mentors in a classroom environment complimented with remote learning alongside their regular jobs, Viridor says. The managers received their Foundation Degree in professional development (management and leadership) after the two-year program.
Viridor also reports it is halfway through a £2 billion investment program in a network of energy recovery facilities along with recycling operations. The company says that working in partnership with Edge Hill University has enabled Viridor to develop a curriculum tailored to the needs of a fast-paced business at the heart of the U.K.’s green economy, with modules focusing on managing change, employee engagement and leadership.
Commenting after the event, Chris Whittle, head of training and development, observed, “I would like to congratulate all of our new graduates—it’s not easy combining this level of study with a demanding career, and I am proud of all of their achievements and of the positive impact this is having to our business. The modules cover subjects which are important to us as a business and the impact of the learning is spreading throughout the company and will continue to do so as more delegates join the course this year.”
Viridor reports that a new group of 30 delegates will begin the program this fall.