This week is National Careers Week and at Magna one of our aims is to be a place where talented and ambitious people enjoy rewarding and fulfilling careers in an inspirational environment.
Recently, some of our colleagues went to Bridgwater & Taunton College to meet the students who are just starting on their career journeys.
Stephanie Lloyd-Foxe, Head of Building Safety & Compliance at Magna, along with three managers within her team, then interviewed a number of students who were interested in work placements with Magna.
Stephanie said: “We were pleased to receive a significant number of applications for work placements of up to two years, to support students in completing the practical elements of their courses in design survey and planning, electrical and plumbing and heating.
“All of us at some stage have been where these students are now and if you can work for a company like Magna that can support and develop you then there is no limit as to how far you can go in your career.”
Stephanie originally joined Magna as a surveyor 21 years ago and has held a variety of roles within Magna, working hard in that time to gain the knowledge, skills and expertise which now sees her leading our Building Safety & Compliance team, which was created just under a year ago.
Stephanie added: “Within my department I am proud to have 15% of the team made up of apprentices learning skills in plumbing and heating and electrical as well as two trainee building safety surveyors. I have also benefited greatly from the support of Magna to develop personally and professionally, gaining a number of qualifications along the way, including two master’s degrees.”
As an employer, Magna is passionate about learning and development, with a dedicated team on hand to help provide the training and qualifications colleagues need to progress through their career and support managers to build the skills and knowledge in their teams.
Stephanie continued: “I really encourage learning and development in my team, whether this is through T-level technical work placements, apprenticeships, or further education. One of the most satisfying aspects of leading a team is supporting individuals to meet their full potential, through the provision of a range of training, qualifications, coaching and mentoring. This approach has seen seven of my team members promoted internally in recognition of their talents, many of whom started with us from a trade background.
“We need to have a continual process of bringing new talent into the sector along with clear succession planning. This is particularly important in technical and trade roles where there is a current shortage.”
We’re proud to be able to help support the next generation of talent with their learning and development journey.
