Venator – a global manufacturer of pigments and additives – has been named Apprenticeship Employer of the Year at the NEPIC (North East Process Industries) awards. The accolade recognises the company’s outstanding commitment to developing future talent through the apprenticeship programme it runs at its Greatham site in Hartlepool.
The NEPIC Industry Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across the North East of England’s processing industries. This year’s ceremony, held on 28 March at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, welcomed over 400 industry leaders to honour excellence across various sectors including chemicals, polymers, pharmaceuticals, biotech, biofuels, renewable energy and low carbon materials.
The Apprenticeship Employer of the Year award recognises companies that demonstrate a strong commitment to employing, nurturing and supporting apprentices. A leading supplier of specialty chemicals and ingredients, Venator has an established apprenticeship programme that offers young people valuable, hands-on experience, helping them develop essential skills, secure stable jobs and contribute to the growth and prosperity of their local community.
Venator’s Greatham site has a long history of supporting new talent and ramped up its apprenticeship work in 2018 – forging close relationships with Cogent Skills and Hartlepool College of Further Education. To date the company has supported 19 operations and five instrument and electrical apprentices through its programme. All 24 individuals have since moved into full time employment within Venator.
Rob Portsmouth, Executive Vice President, Sustainability, EHS and HR at Venator, expressed his delight at the award win: “This award is a fantastic recognition of the hard work and dedication of our team at Greatham. Our apprenticeship programme is vital for the future of our workforce, and we are incredibly proud of the opportunities it provides for young talent to grow and thrive in our business. This award reinforces our strong focus on skills development, ensuring the next generation of process industry professionals are well-equipped to drive innovation and excellence in the sector.”
Erwin de Moor, Greatham Site Director, added: “This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and unity of our team at Greatham. We are deeply committed to providing exceptional guidance and training to our apprentices, ensuring they have the skills and support needed to thrive in their careers. This award highlights our collective effort and passion for nurturing the next generation of industry professionals, and we couldn’t be prouder of the success we’ve achieved together.”
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