A TOP ten of young performers have been handpicked from the staff at Gretna Green to form an elite new group.
They will make up the Future Leaders Club, an initiative which aims to drive progression, develop skills and build the future of the historic hospitality business.
The initial ten were chosen by managers out of a workforce of nearly 250 and are considered the ‘best-of-the-best’ – showing talent and a strong desire to contribute to the company’s success.
They will now meet every six weeks to discuss the business, the impact it has on the community and the sector.
The first meeting, chaired by Hollie Higgin, 25, focused on generating fresh ideas to potentially make Gretna Green even more engaging.
They discussed topics such as whether Gretna Green could be gamified, as well as what they’d change about working there.
Hollie said: “We believe in empowering our exceptional talent – providing them with the tools, resources and opportunities they need to excel.”
Bethany Sykes, 27, corporate events and reservations manager, is delighted to be involved, saying: “Being part of the club is an amazing opportunity to learn, collaborate with exceptional colleagues and help shape our company’s future.
“We can discuss best practice and swap ideas which will make a positive difference. There’s a real shared energy and creativity when we meet.
“I feel honoured to be part of this inspiring group.”
Meanwhile, several influential business leaders have already agreed to come and address the Future Leaders Club to share their success stories and provide insights on career progression.
They include John Ryley, the recently retired boss of Sky News; Chris Holmes, who for nearly 30 years led agricultural and engineering company Carr’s Group; and Nick Whiting, a visionary designer and associate partner at the world’s biggest consultancy, McKinsey.
Gretna Green executive chairman John Holliday said: “Successful teams, professionals, and organisations of 2023 and beyond require leaders who can adapt to innovation and adjust to transformations in society. Future leaders must also be a step ahead in terms of their strategies and operational functionality.
“Within many corporates, young people rarely get the chance to be seen and heard. We are giving them a seat at the top table, at the board. Too often we fail these young people. We hope we can nurture and grow our young talent – as they are the leaders of the future.”
