Published: Monday, 26th July, 2010 9:44am

Motor company managers are real leaders

Eight senior managers from Kerr and Smith are on the road to first line management after completing an Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) qualification at Kilmarnock College. Kerr and Smith managers from Cumnock, Ayr and Glasgow received their ILM Level 3 Award from Kilmarnock College, having worked full-time while studying to achieve the qualification. The nine month work-based course was achieved through a partnership between Kilmarnock College and Kerr and Smith Automobiles.

Chris Merry, of Kilmarnock College's Business Development Team, said: "As the managers were based throughout Ayrshire and Glasgow, a flexible mode of delivery was key to the successful completion of this course. We worked closely with Kerr and Smith to ensure that the course met the company's requirements. Kilmarnock College has extensive experience in providing training to a range of businesses and organisations and so we are able to develop programmes that suit the companies involved as well as the awarding body."

Jim Smith, Director at Kerr and Smith said: "Working in partnership with Kilmarnock College over the past 18 months has been one of the most positive experiences of private/public engagement. Outcomes are always a priority and the success of the ILM courses run by Kilmarnock College for our managers has resulted in a 100% pass rate. More importantly, this has helped them develop their managerial styles, which will benefit the entire company.

The Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) is the UK's largest management body, combining industry-leading qualifications and specialist member services. ILM exists to support, develop and inform managers at every stage of their careers. The Level 3 course covers topics such as personnel support, coaching and mentoring, and executive management, with each candidate assessed on subjects relevant to their positions. Progression through to Level 4/5 in Team Leading and Management can be obtained on completion of the Level 3 course.

Kerr and Smith work in partnership with Kilmarnock College, Ayr College and the University of the West of Scotland to support all their training and development needs.