Member Article

County Durham cleaning company creates apprentice roles

A Darlington-based cleaning business has started a recruitment drive aimed at young people.

MJF Cleaning Services, which provides a range of commercial cleaning services, has taken on two apprentices to assist with its growth over the coming months.

Nicole Minnes, from Darlington, and Ben Jones, from Hetton-le-Hole, join MJF’s industrial team, working on administrative and industrial projects as part of their apprenticeship at MJF.

Following a 12 month apprenticeship programme, which includes on site training and studying for a range of industry qualifications, it’s hoped the young people will stay with MJF in permanent roles.

Managers plan to recruit more apprentices in the coming months as part of its commitment to providing long term opportunities for local young people.

Managing director of MJF Cleaning Services, Martin Ferguson, said: “I know from personal experience how difficult it can be to break into the jobs’ market these days. There aren’t as many opportunities for young people and apprenticeships are vital. We’re offering long-term positions within the company, giving people the chance to work their way up and gain important qualifications and experience. We always nurture our staff as they’re what make us successful and our clients are always impressed with our consistent, high-quality team.”

Darlington entrepreneur, Martin Ferguson, established MJF Cleaning Services in 2006 whilst working as a window cleaner. As well as the new team members, MJF has also this year renovated its headquarters in Darlington town centre.

The planned expansion will see around 80 new jobs being created, adding to the 125-strong team in Darlington as plans are being made to open a new office in the North West in 2014.

Since launching in 2006, MJF has secured prestigious contracts with companies such as Narec, Rockliffe Hall, Shepherd Construction, JD Wetherspoon, Cleveland Cable and Bowmer and Kirkland.

As well as daily office, commercial and specialist industrial cleaning services, MJF carries out large and small scale cleaning projects such as carpet and upholstery cleaning, window and high-level cleaning and clean-downs on construction sites ahead of handovers to clients.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Anna Addison Associates .