that will be a valuable asset to the city. The Employability Fund received a staggering £200,000+ worth of strong applications from third sector projects, but unfortunately we are currently not able to support them all.” Kate added, “To deliver a more meaningful pilot for the city, we are appealing to employers to join the Partnership to fund more projects and offer practical support – such as help with CV writing, interview practice, or a chance to experience the work environment. Supporting the pilot will help people to build skills and confidence and, even though we are not expecting that everyone will get jobs, it will enable people to move closer to being ‘work ready’. Through the Partnership, we hope to support a cohort of 100 - 200 individuals to enhance their employability prospects and build tangible outcomes, which will help implement a longer term employability strategy for Leeds.” Employability Fund Partner, James Bailey of Hammerson, Victoria Leeds, said, “We are delighted be involved with this Partnership and hope other employers will join us. Employment is the cornerstone of stability in our lives. It’s not just about giving one person a wellpaid, rewarding job; it’s about investing in local families and communities and, in many instances, is life-changing.” David Maddison of Trinity Leeds, also supporting the Partnership, said, “Leeds has a strong economy while being a compassionate city – by helping those furthest from the labour market we help everyone else along the way.” For more details on how to get involved with the Leeds Employability Partnership, visit: www.leedscf.org.uk/ employabilitypartnership/ or contact Kate Hainsworth by phone on 0113 242 2426.
Cocktail firm makes trio of new appointments A Leeds-based national cocktail firm has appointed three new staff members to support the rapid growth of the business.
Zest Mixology has employed Jack Bennett and Timmy Wright as event specialists and Emily Ratcliffe as an event administrator to work alongside Managing Director, Murdo MacLeod and the growing team. Timmy Wright has more than 10 years of industry experience and with bartending experience and experience gained from supporting a family business, Jack has a strong events background and focuses on the operations and logistics within Zest Mixology. Jack says: “The working relationship between myself, Timmy and Murdo is really good, we’re different from one another but work well together. That’s what makes it special, we are always at
the heart of the event and know each and every event inside and out.” Currently studying Events Management at Leeds Beckett University, Emily joins the team as an events administrator. With five years of industry experience, Emily’s passion for events will allow her to support Zest Mixology. She says: “Zest caters for everything, there’s not a pop up bar or event furniture brief we’ve not managed to fit yet. It’s great to be part of a young and fun vibrant team.” Founder and managing director of the firm, Murdo MacLeod adds: “It is an exciting time for Zest Mixology. The new appointments have been made to support our continuous growth and we firmly believe 2017 to be our biggest year yet!”
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