Firm lays foundations for young talent

A builder based in Exeter is cementing its future by recognising the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of its employed youngsters.

Persimmon Homes has launched its Young Achievers awards programme to put the spotlight on its apprentices and sales trainees who have gone above and beyond to succeed in their role.

The builder is determined to invest in its young workforce, creating a highly-skilled base that will take the company forward in the future.

Jeff Fairburn, who became chief executive of the company last year, has placed emphasis on the role young people can play in the business as he himself started in the construction industry as a 17-year-old apprentice quantity surveyor.

Simon Perks, managing director of Persimmon Homes South West, said: “It is a very exciting time to be starting your career in the construction industry and the Young Achievers awards programme aims to reward those youngsters who have got off to a flying start.

“With high youth unemployment and people talking of a ‘lost generation’ it is important to us that we nurture our young workforce, give them quality training and the skills they need to succeed, and then watch them flourish and forge successful careers.”

The categories for the awards include Trade Apprentice of the Year, Sales Trainee of the Year and Business Trainee of the Year. One of the winners will then be crowned the Young Achiever of the Year and cash prizes will also be presented.

Simon added: “We are looking for someone who has delivered above and beyond their position and made a real difference to the business in which they work. For example, we may look at outstanding college reports or great progress at learning new skills.

“We are delighted that these awards have been launched and hope one of our apprentices or sales trainees clinches the top title. Many of our employees have joined us directly from school at 16 and we have a robust apprentice programme taking more than 100 young people into the business nationally each year.”

Special recognition will also be given to a young person who has demonstrated real entrepreneurial flair. They will be presented with the Duncan Davidson Award, named after the founder and life president of Persimmon Homes.

“When Duncan founded Persimmon he demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit. Today, the company is highly-respected within a competitive market and this spirit remains strong and is at the heart of Persimmon’s success,” said Simon.

For more information visit www.persimmonhomes.com.