"If Cirencester Friendly is to achieve its growth ambitions, investing in both current and new talent is vital."
- Andy Morris, CEO of Cirencester Friendly
Cirencester Friendly has launched its apprenticeship programme, offering a two-year course for eight participants to take on both customer-facing and technical roles. Alongside learning on the job, Cirencester’s apprentices will spend time with the senior leadership team and participate in virtual courses, working towards their nationally recognised qualification. Cirencester hopes candidates with stay with the society to build their careers once the course is completed, further bolstering its talent pool.
As well as learning on the job and spending time with the senior leadership team, online learning & support will be provided by two specialist organisations. “Investing in talent is hugely important to the future success of Cirencester Friendly. By creating this programme, we can ensure we develop the skills we need to grow the business in-house, demonstrating from day one our commitment to building a positive, supportive working environment where employees are valued,” explained John Underwood, Director of Technology at Cirencester Friendly.
Meanwhile, Sue Kissane has been promoted to Underwriting Manager after over five years with the society, and Rob Higgins moves to Senior Claims Manager – reflecting his pivotal role in achieving a 95% claims payout rate in 2023.
Andy Morris, CEO of Cirencester Friendly, said “If Cirencester Friendly is to achieve its growth ambitions, investing in both current and new talent is vital. Sue and Rob’s hugely deserved promotions reflect our commitment to this aim. I want our employees to feel they can develop and progress within the Society and we actively encourage regular career conversations between line managers and employees.
By creating the apprenticeship programme, we can ensure we develop the skills we need to grow the business in-house. I, and the rest of the senior leadership team, are committed to creating an inclusive & supporting culture where every employee feels valued and empowered to achieve their career goals,” he concluded.
