Electricity firm launches Leadership Academy for managers

The new Leadership Academy will help support the personal and professional development of up to 600 line managers. Employees will undertake a Chartered Management Institute (CMI) diploma in leadership and management, tailored to the business, taught by external experts and ending with a graduation celebration when colleagues complete their qualification. All of this has been made possible through the Apprenticeship Levy scheme.

Managers on the structured training course will learn how to enhance and consistently apply their management skills, using techniques that are vital for a successful career in management. They will also apply what they learn, to practical situations within the workplace, helping them to influence workplace problems more effectively while studying the course.

Alex Sturge, head of communications, engagement and development at UK Power Networks, said:

“The programme will initially develop our middle managers through level 3 or level 5 CMI qualifications. Once completed at level 5, managers can work towards becoming a Certified Chartered Manager.

“The energy sector is traditionally excellent at equipping employees with the technical training skills required to do their job. Our aspiration is to see that same level of competence and consistency achieved in leadership training, by changing and raising expectations. This programme perfectly aligns with our vision of being an employer of choice.”

UK Power Networks was named in the Sunday Times Top 25 Best Big Companies to Work For list for the sixth year running, earlier this year. The company, which delivers power supplies to 8.3 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, was ranked 10th in the UK for 2020.