Leading vehicle leasing organisation, Zenith, has continued the support of its successful apprenticeship programme with the employment of its highest ever cohort.
The company, which was recognised at June’s inaugural West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, has employed 29 new apprentices – an increase of more than 100% since its last cohort, which came in 2020. Throughout the pandemic, Zenith worked with the Department for Work and Pensions and launched the Government-backed Kickstart scheme in 2021, with 13 out of the 20 placements being offered permanent roles on the conclusion of their programme.
The company has also repositioned its apprenticeship programme to combat the current cost of living crisis. As such, Zenith has increased the wage of each apprentice, which is now far above the national rate, and will offer an annual monetary bonus to those hired in 2022 based on the completion of the programme.
The record number of apprentices will work across Zenith’s key business teams, including finance, remarketing and in the commercial workshops at four different sites – Leeds, Glasgow, Skelmersdale and Aldridge. The apprentices will have full support throughout the programme and will be given a dedicated mentor for day-to-day queries, be involved in regular training and development exercises, and will be put on a permanent contract once they pass the apprenticeship period.
Nick Galicia, Talent Programmes Lead at Zenith, said: “We care about nurturing people from different backgrounds, and as one of Yorkshire’s largest companies, we’re proud to offer a leading apprenticeship scheme which not only helps to boost employment in the local area, but provides those involved with an opportunity to begin their career with all the support and training they’re going to need, both for now and for future opportunities.
“The scheme is constantly developing and growing, which is a testament to how we, as a business, feel about our approach to people, and we’re excited to continue this into 2023. If you’re interested in joining our apprenticeship programme, email [email protected] and we’ll give you more information.”