Leyland helps colleagues fast-track to management

Decorating and DIY specialist Leyland has launched a fast-track management programme to help ambitious members of the team progress into senior positions.

Sixteen colleagues from Leyland have enrolled on the  programme, which is running for the third time within the business.
The programme is led by an external People Development Trainer and lasts nine months, covering a wide variety of topics including self-awareness, project management and team management.

Chandni Patel, L&D specialist at Leyland, said: “Our fast-track management programme is designed to equip and inspire high potential colleagues from across the business. We are looking for individuals who can move into management in the next 12 to 18 months.

“Colleagues can put themselves forward for the programme but also need to be endorsed by their managers, area managers and relevant member of the senior leadership team (SLT). The programme, however, is open to all, regardless of whether they are just six months into the business and working as a customer service advisor, or they have been with us a long time and are already a deputy manager.

“The programme allows us to support our people in their personal and professional growth, while strengthening and growing Leyland’s talent pipeline for the future.”

The programme lasts nine months, with candidates meeting once or twice a month for face-to-face sessions at Leyland’s Acton store.
Candidates are also assigned a mentor from the SLT or high up management positions to help them through the process.

As well as progressing to store manager and area manager positions, colleagues on the fast-track management programme have the opportunity to consider future careers within Leyland’s Wembley-based Support Centre, which include roles in the commercial team, finance team, HR, IT and marketing.

A graduation celebration is being planned for those who complete the programme.

Meanwhile, 10 Leyland colleagues are also completing the 12-15 month, Laying Your Foundations apprenticeship based on Level 3 team leader apprenticeship.

Patel added: “We want all colleagues throughout the business to learn, develop and grow.”

Leyland currently has 415 employees across its 35 stores and support centre. Staff retention is at an all-time high following a drive to promote internally over the last 18 months.

In 2024 all store manager appointments came from within the business.