Member Article

Staff investment critical to North East's future success

Companies in the region must invest in their staff if they are to prosper in harder economic times, a North East businessman has warned.

David Bowles, chairman of Entrust, said: “Businesses in our region have a strong record of dealing with tough trading conditions - very often that has meant engaging all of the people in the business in making sure that operating efficiency and effectiveness is focused on satisfying customers. Although this is something we do well in the North East, more businesses need to focus their efforts on providing exceptional customer care. This is going to be the differentiating factor that will form the basis for the region’s growing economic strength.”

Mr Bowles made his comments in the lead up to the Culture for Success awards, which take place this week in Newcastle. Entrants to the awards are judged on their devotion to customer service excellence, employee development, their approach to winning and retaining business, and their level of contribution to the region. They come from a range of industries spanning small service-based enterprises to construction and retail giants.

Susan Oliphant, of Service Network, said: “The awards are in their fifth year and the calibre of applicants is now stronger than ever. In the past, we awarded the winner of Culture for Success during a conference but we feel that it now merits its own distinct event. The awards ceremony will be a vibrant celebration of the best examples of staff development and customer service in businesses across the North East.”

The awards ceremony will be held on April 24 at the Marriot Hotel in Gosforth Park. For details contact Anna Brown on 0191 244 4013.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .