VIP is the UK's largest independent distributor of PC components, gaming peripherals and IT products, and as part of the VIP Group has been putting its colleagues and clients at the forefront of its business for 25years.
Providing a vital link in the technology chain, the company philosophy is to build strong relationships with suppliers and customers by providing a quality service and value for money. Recognising staff to be the key to success, Warrington-based VIP chose to work with Intec to recruit and train its apprentices.
Alex Astbury, aged 20, successfully completed a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Sales through the partnership between VIP and Intec, and is now a permanent account manager with the company undertaking a Level3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
Intec offers a free recruitment service to make the hiring of a suitable apprentice straightforward and then develops a flexible vocational programme which accommodates the needs of both the company and the employee.
VIP distribution manager Gareth Rogers says: ‘We employ apprentices because it gives us a chance to mould their skills to meet our needs and Intec provides a great service, enabling us to find and train candidates who are keen to join us and grow with the company.
‘Working in sales can be demanding but Intec finds the right people, like Alex, and then provides a bespoke training service. Our apprentices achieve their qualification while earning and we end up with skilled staff who we know can do the job.’
Alex now looks after about 150-200 accounts for VIP and is part ofa10-strongsales team. The Intec team visits once a month, spending time with him in the work place so he doesn’t have to go off-site. He has also been given the additional responsibility of mentoring two new apprentices in the sales team, again taken on through Intec.
‘Alex’s development has been fantastic- he has drive and I’m pleased to say that he sees a career with VIP,’ says Gareth. ‘He is a great example of how Intec is helping us to move forward as a business through quality recruitment.’
VIP’s partnership with Intec is at the same time enabling Alex to meet his own aspirations.
‘Many of my peers are still in full-time education whereas I am learning and earning,’ says Alex. ‘I’m gaining experience and qualifications for the future, I’m on good money and I’ve just bought a great car! What’s not to like?’
To findout more contact Intec Business Colleges on freephone 0808 100 1155.
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