A Lancashire recruitment firm sourced the right people to help them succeed through Lancaster University Management School’s Help to Grow programme.

Simon Wynne, MD of Farrington-based technology sector search recruitment firm Wynne Consulting, took great benefits from the 12-week scheme, which brings inspiration and ideas to companies after two years of unprecedented operating conditions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and other global economic factors.

“Help to Grow covers all of the cornerstones that any business, in any discipline, needs to be successful,” said Simon. “Business is a ruthless world – it exposes your weaknesses and undermines your success. The combination of theory, and peers and mentors can shortcut the learn-through-experience process and affirm your strengths.”

Help to Grow is delivered by LUMS in association with the Chartered Association of Business Schools and the UK Government Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

It focuses on increasing skills and knowledge to boost growth potential in businesses in a constantly-changing operating environment. Business leaders are able to learn from each other, as well as experienced LUMS academics and practitioners.

“I really enjoyed all aspects of the course,” said Simon. “There are three components: academic theory; peer-to-peer discussion and reflection of this learning; and one-to-one mentoring – together they make a potent recipe for success. “The peer-to-peer learning was very powerful. Working with other transparent business leaders turns the classroom theoretical learning into real-world examples and application, and the vision, mission and values element made me think very clearly about why we exist as a business.”

Simon recognised the difficulties of running the firm and taking part in Help to Grow at the same time, but added: “It was very tough to work the course around my business commitments; but nothing is easy when time is required. The value makes it eminently worthwhile.”

LUMS Help to Grow Programme Leader Dr Radka Newton said: “Help to Grow continues to help businesses from across the North West gain valuable skills and knowledge as they look to build for a bright future. Simon’s experiences show how even an experienced business leader has much to gain from taking part.”