Servest’s sought after Future Leader development programme has opened for applications today.
The facilities management company is on the hunt for the next generation of charismatic, driven and ambitious leaders, all of whom will need to possess natural communication and leadership skills.
Last year, Servest received 160 applications for the ten spots available on its industry recognised Future Leader programme. The Institute of Leadership and Management has since accredited Servest’s renowned management development initiative and, subsequently, the number of applicants is expected to dramatically soar for the March 2016 intake.
Young hopefuls across the country are being actively encouraged to demonstrate that they have what it takes to enter the world of management. Applications are now open and shall remain so until the end of November. Initially applicants asked what makes them an ideal candidate for the Future Leader programme, which they are encouraged to answer in a creative manner. If they are successful, a telephone interview follows and then an assessment day.
Six talented Future Leaders will then be selected to embark on a two-year programme commencing in March 2016 that will prepare them for taking on a management role in the company. Each Future Leader will spend the first nine months in Servest’s headquarters in Bury St. Edmunds working through key support functions such as HR, sales, payroll, marketing and finance. They will then go on to spend time in each of Servest’s main operational divisions including building services, catering, security and cleaning.
In addition to learning practical skills, the participants will enjoy a salary of £20k in the first year, rising to £22k in the second. Upon completion of the programme, they will achieve an ILM certification (Level 3 in Facilities Management). However, the journey doesn’t end there; each person will join the most relevant division in a management role, or look to study for further qualifications if they want to join a specialist function.
Servest prides itself on delivering the highest standards of learning and development and the ILM framework will ensure there is a solid pathway of progression for those selected.
Chanel Kirwan, a first-year Future Leader, would recommend the programme to aspiring business managers; ‘The investment and support I have received from the Future Leader programme has made me far more determined to succeed – to be the best version of myself. The programme offers a great opportunity to experience every aspect of the business and to learn where in the company your strengths lie.’
Rob Legge, Group CEO, said: ‘The scheme demonstrates our commitment both to attracting the best people into FM and also developing our own talented team members to ensure a leadership pipeline.’
