Showing posts with label Telford. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Telford. Show all posts

Thursday, 29 September 2011

Telford business receives government training boost

A Telford business has introduced a new government-funded apprentice training programme aimed at strengthening its customer service.

Inchcape Volkswagen, in association with the Learning Skills Partnership, has launched a course to introduce new talent into the automotive industry and enhance its offering.

Amy Swingler, from Trench, accepted the new customer host role and will begin a six month intensive training programme, resulting in a NVQ Level 2 customer service qualification.

The 18-year-old successfully completed an assessment day which included group exercises and an individual presentation in front of a panel of Inchcape managers and representatives from the Learning Skills Partnership, in addition to a one-to-one interview.

Speaking of her appointment, Amy added: “I had recently completed my A-levels and decided an apprenticeship would be the ideally opportunity to start building my business skills. The interview process was very nerve wracking but I am delighted to have secured the position.”

The dedicated role was launched following customers feedback. The training programme covers all customer facing skills including body language and problem solving plus in-depth product knowledge.

Volkswagen passenger cars is carrying out a pilot scheme with the Learning Skills Partnership across a number of sites in the UK as course co-ordinator, Lee Wilks explains.

He said: “The on-going pilot scheme has shown promise and will be fully assessed in the near future. We hope the government-funded programme will continue and introduce further customer host roles across the Volkswagen network.”

Inchcape Telford’s brand manager, Andy Poole, said: “This new role is not about selling its more about being the first point of contact for customers, ensuring their experience is dealt with efficiently and effectively.

“This role is introducing new blood into the industry and therefore a clear training framework will help nurture and develop Amy’s skills; after all she could be one of our future managers.”






Friday, 18 December 2009

POST-CHRISTMAS CHARITY CHEER

A north west car retailer group is aiming to provide some charity festive cheer this Christmas by helping those unable to spend the season at home.

The Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund will benefit to the tune of £25 for every car sold at Inchcape’s 13 Volkswagen sites during the company’s January sale, which runs from 29th December to 10th January.

Cumbria Community Foundation’s appeal has already raised over £1m to help the victims of the recent floods that have left hundreds of people in temporary accommodation and without possessions.

The group’s sites in Chester, Bromborough, Salford, Altrincham, Macclesfield, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Hyde, Stockport, Shrewsbury, Bridgnorth and Telford are hoping to raise over £10,000 for the fund during the ten-day event.

Inchcape north’s divisional marketing manager, Tony Carr, said: “It’s important we help others at Christmas and this fund was very appropriate, as many flood victims will be spending the festive period away from their homes.

“Members of staff have family and friends directly affected by the floods, so we’re pleased to help in a small way.

“I hope lots of people take advantage of the offers we have and at the same time, help such a great cause.”

Deb Muscat, Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund Appeal’s acting director, said: “We’re grateful to every individual or business donation, especially from those outside Cumbria.

“Inchcape’s innovative idea shows the different ways businesses can help raise money.

“The Fund strives to improve the quality of life for those who have had their lives affected by floods in November this year.”