Berforts Information Press
SMEs in the print industry sector are collaborating to introduce a new management development programme
The skills challenge
The UK print industry is the world’s 5th largest producer of printed products. It contributes £14.3 billion of turnover and employs 140,000 people, mainly in small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). Print is an advanced manufacturing sector that utilises cutting edge information and production technologies.
The industry is facing significant skills and management challenges in terms of an aging workforce (the average age in the industry is over 50), rapidly changing technology, supply chain dynamics and, most importantly, a move away from national agreements and bargaining to local company based performance.
Employers have identified management skill shortages in SMEs within the Printing Industry. The industry has typically promoted from within without formal management training to support career progression. Consequently there is perceived to be a lack of professional management within the industry, making it difficult to attract high calibre recruits. Within the industry, there is no specifically tailored training or structured management education beyond level 4. The industry needs to invest in professional leadership and management skills to improve operational performance, leading to growth and sustainability. However, the current financial status and size of many of the companies in the sector prevents them from implementing appropriate management development programmes of their own.
The solution
SMEs in the sector are collaborating to introduce a new management development programme for the sector. The Employer Ownership Pilot will support the introduction of an employer-led higher level Apprenticeship programme to extend craft Apprenticeships into formal management qualifications based on the evolving needs of the sector.
Employers will lead the programme design to harness the latest industry developments in work flow, materials and inventory management and printing processes whilst also developing core management and leadership skills.
Individuals participating in the programme will gain both core leadership and management skills and specific industry knowledge and application that will enable them to transfer learning directly to operational performance improvement. They will also have the opportunity to gain a transferable qualification to support their career development. They will build networks to support their development and experience mentoring relationships to enhance both their own effectiveness and to value the concept for their own staff. A new web portal, support seminars and mentoring programme with enhance the development programme giving every participant access to the best support and resources.
Typically, between 10 and 20 employers will be involved per region. The project will be piloted in the East of England region where there are many print and media companies typically employing fewer than 50 people. After evaluation, the project will be extended to six other regions: North East; North West; Midlands; South West; and East of England. The British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) will oversee the implementation of the programme.
Impact
200 individuals will be supported through the programme. The increased support for current and potential managers will increase the operational efficiency of participating companies. It will enable them to offer new services to their clients and increase their operating margins by implementing efficiency programmes. It is anticipated that the project will deliver a 100% return on investment within two years of implementation. It will also enable the sector to attract high calibre managers from other industries by giving the sector a reputation for investing in the development of its people.
Investment
Employer investment: £997,752
Employer Ownership Pilot Funding: £1,096,000
Total: £2,093,752
