Ashridge Group invests in the future with new apprentice
The Buckinghamshire Business Awards Company of the Year 2018 has continued impressive recent expansion by appointing Isaac Richmond as an apprentice in the company’s accounts department.
Isaac joins the facilities management specialists as part of an arrangement with Milton Keynes College, with which the company has been partnering for a number of years. Isaac is expected to cover all the tasks expected of an Accounts Assistant, plus the coordination of administrative activities to facilitate a smooth-running office.
He now has the opportunity to earn a full-time position at the business, which is building a strong reputation for providing career progression. He said, “I made the decision to not attend university and instead begin an apprenticeship with a company which will help me develop as an individual. Ashridge Group immediately attracted me because of their exceptional treatment of their staff. Although I am an Accounts Apprentice, I have gained an understanding of all aspects of the business, from Human Resources to our Operations Team and everybody has been so welcoming.
Getting to know everything about my position has been enjoyable and very challenging. I want to continue developing and to gain my accounting qualifications. I am currently studying for my AAT certificate with MK College and I would look to progress further after completing this course. I would like to one day take on an apprentice of my own, to give my knowledge to them and help them develop in a future career”.
As Ashridge Group continues to expand, the business is looking to build on the value of its ‘people first’ ethos, which focuses on prioritising its own employees’ needs to deliver customer service excellence. It was imperative therefore the apprentice chosen would embrace the company’s values of Diligence, Passion, Competence and Responsiveness.
Nancy Oliver joined Ashridge Group three years ago, initially on a work experience placement, and has since worked her way up to the role of HR Manager. Nancy played a pivotal role in Isaac’s appointment, she said, “From the moment we met Isaac at interview we knew he would be perfect for the business. He has an ambitious attitude, which showed in his GCSE and A Level grades, and a passion to do well not only in life but also in business. He presented a range of work experience that showed initiative and has very mature career goals for someone of a young age.
Isaac has settled in really well with his sensible attitude and positive character. Milton Keynes College has been a fantastic support and we are very excited to see future relationships grow with them after the successful completion of Isaac’s apprenticeship.”
Based in Aylesbury, Ashridge Group provides services and consultancy to sectors as diverse as corporates, live entertainment venues, rail and critical national infrastructure. Championing a people-oriented approach to business development, the company also looks to develop partnerships with other suppliers in the county as part of its aim to support the growth of the local economy.