Encouraging continual learning and development by staff is a big part of qualification provider NCFE’s culture and business ethos. 

Proving that training never stops regardless of your position in the business,  Alasdair Downes, Director of Business Development at NCFE, has recently completed the ‘Key Account Management – Best Practice’ course at Cranfield University with  help from funding provider NBSL which runs the North East’s Leadership & Management Advisory Service.

NCFE is a nationally recognised Awarding Organisation with a mission statement “to provide opportunities to enrich society”.  This mantra is embedded in NCFE’s culture, and their staff are continually encouraged not only to promote qualifications and the benefits of continual development, but also to take part themselves, develop their own capabilities and learn something new. 

 Commenting on the Key Account Management programme at Cranfield University which is renowned for its contribution to management practice, Alasdair said

 “I wanted a course that would challenge me and develop my understanding of the customer and how at NCFE we can develop customer-focused strategies, identifying and prioritising key accounts and measure their profitability. With the help of NBSL and the funding that they provided, I was able to take the course at Cranfield University which looks at stimulating innovation, driving change and delivering results, which in increasingly competitive times are essential attributes for any business.

Working with NBSL is a very straight forward process, the team are very friendly and efficient and the funding support that they provide helps not only the learner but those companies that look to support their staff through training and development programmes”.

 The course at Cranfield University proved to be inspirational for Alasdair who added,  

 “I’ve been able to bring back to NCFE ideas and strategies which we can begin to implement and look to put in place over the coming months.  NCFE is an innovative and ambitious company where for us learning never stops”.

 NCFE, which employs nearly 120 staff at its Newcastle-based Head Office, was ranked 30th in The Sunday Times 100 Best Places to Work in the Public and Charities Sectors in 2011.

For more information regarding NCFE visit www.ncfe.org.uk. 

 If you would also like to take advantage of NBSL’s package of support including advice and funding for growth to help your business fulfil its true potential, contact us today on 01670 813322 or go to our website at www.nbsl.org.uk to apply immediately online.