Launched by the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink (NSAFD) and the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), the Careers Passport will speed up interview short-listing and job onboarding, saving time and money for manufacturers, and fast-tracking eager and committed new talent into the sector
An audience of MPs, Civil Servants and influential people from the world of Food and Drink manufacturing, as well as Government Minister Victoria Prentis, were gathered to hear the announcement and speak about their role in developing, trialling and pledging to support and endorse the Food and Drink Careers Passport.
The chief executive of the NSAFD Louise Cairns said:
“The Food & Drink’s Careers Passport represents a step change in how the industry is opening its doors to eager new talent. It’s positive proof that Passport holders have made a choice to seek a career in food and drink and put the work in to prove it.
“More and more companies are recognising the value the Passport offers – both to their business and to jobseekers. Alongside the FDF, we’ve been delighted by the weight of industry interest and involvement to date and we’re certain the official launch will make the Passport a familiar part of future recruitment strategies.”
In Wales, Welsh Government is supporting a comprehensive nationwide Passport pilot as well as a Pilot in all 6 Welsh Prisons.
Welsh employer’s include Castell Howell, Mona Dairy, Halen Mon, Glanbia, R F Brookes, South Caernarvon Creameries, O P Chocolate and Llaeth y Llan as well as smaller firms like In the Welsh Wind, Tan y Castell, Brod Danish Bakery, they all see the benefit the scheme will bring to their business. It is also supported by BIC Innovation, Levercliff and other organisations to help promote the sector as a career of choice, and we are delighted to have the support of the DWP, Charities, Local authorities, and Colleges to help promote the Food and Drink sector as a Career of choice in Wales
Arwyn Watkins Chair/MD Cambrian training stated:
We will actively encourage our business partners and stakeholders to get on board and make the commitment.
Linda Grant of BIC Innovation stated:
BIC Innovation signed up to the Careers Passport Pledge so that we can do our bit to encourage more people to join our fantastic Welsh food and drink sector and find exciting and interesting careers in the sector.
Mona Dairy's HR Manager, Sarah Croud, said:
This is a huge support to the food industry, supporting current employees within the sector and also providing the essential training required to people looking to join the food industry.
To mark the launch of Career Passports, the NSAFD and the FDF held a joint reception at the Houses of Parliament where jobseekers, manufacturers and MPs discussed ways to help the sector recruit new staff and ensure the success of the scheme.
To pledge the support of your business or for further information on the Careers Passports, please visit: https://fdcp.co.uk/join-our-pledge/