RECRUITMENT & TRAINING Dutch hold in the production industry, and so I was excited to spend some time working alongside them,” says Tom. “The experience way exceeded my expectations. I came back to the UK with new-found knowledge of how a young plant production facility is run, having learned a lot from a company that is taking great steps in biological IPM strategy. We pride ourselves on producing a good quality end product, which must start from strong young plant material, so it was great to see what goes into producing a young plant that meets our standards for growing on.” Growing Stars initiative develops skillsets Tom aims to build on his experience to become an expert in growing, despite horticulture experiencing ongoing changes. “The industry is going through political,
environmental and attitudinal changes, which could be seen as daunting and challenging,” explains Tom, “but I see it as a time to revaluate current practice and to innovate.” Johnsons Managing Director Graham Richardson said the business aimed to develop staff from their initial induction through to regular training and development. “Our Growing Stars initiative develops the skillset of our existing staff members across the business, with a view to them one day taking on more senior roles. We also offer apprenticeship opportunities – such schemes have helped create our managers of today and we hope that new apprenticeships will provide our managers of the future. “It’s been wonderful to see Tom grow in his role since he joined us and I’m looking forward to seeing him go on to even greater things with Johnsons.”
Johnsons of Whixley
The Landscaper | Issue 240 | September 2019
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