December 2021
We are the first UK housebuilder to invest in a Sales Training Programme with Mercuri International, a specialist training provider delivering the Diploma in Sales awarded by the Institute of Sales Professionals.
The programme, which has been specifically tailored for the housebuilding industry, gives our Sales Executives the opportunity to undertake a Level 4 Sales Apprenticeship and Diploma: two globally recognised qualifications equivalent to the first year of a university degree. Sales Managers and Directors also have the opportunity to undertake a Level 5 Leadership qualification which results in a diploma awarded by the Chartered Management Institute.
We are funding the apprenticeships and the first cohort of training is underway, with 16 colleagues taking part. Rachel Tata, Group Learning & Development Manager at Story Homes, said: “Investing in our people is a key focus for our business, alongside providing our customers with the best service possible, which is why we approached Mercuri International for the training.
“A variety of topics are included within the apprenticeship, all of which will help with both personal and professional development, while improving the customer journey. We launched the training programme in September and feedback from those taking part has been excellent so far.”
Those undertaking the training have a dedicated Mercuri coach alongside the support of the Story Homes Learning and Development team throughout the duration of the training, which can take up to two years to complete.
Ruby Sheard, Sales Executive based at Halton Grange in Halton, who is completing the Level 4 Apprenticeship, said: “I’m really enjoying the training and I’ve found that I’m already using elements of it in my day-to-day role. I’ve always thought about whether there are any qualifications I can gain to help me with my career, and the fact that the business is funding this for me and that I can complete it whilst I’m at work is an amazing opportunity.”
The investment in the training is already having a positive impact on the business; Hayley Blair, Sales Director for Cumbria and Scotland said: “We are already seeing the benefits of the training in our Sales team, with transferable skills from the apprenticeship already empowering them more in their roles. It’s also having a positive impact on how closely our Sales teams work together; there’s a real feeling of camaraderie amongst those undertaking the training, who are looking to each other for support and discussions, alongside their Mercuri coach.
“I’m taking part in the Level 5 Apprenticeship training and so far, it’s been excellent. I’ve been with the business for over 15 years and despite this, the content covered, and learnings have been invaluable.”
Speaking about the partnership with Story Homes, Vanessa Healey-Gwilliam, Apprenticeship Consultant at Mercuri International, said: “Mercuri’s Apprenticeship Team has been extremely impressed by the enthusiasm and drive evident in Story Homes’ Sales apprentices. The leadership team at Story Homes are fully committed to developing people and in today’s highly competitive war for talent, this is a winning strategy ”
Mercuri coach Barrie Sharpe added: “Despite being very busy the team took to the programme immediately and are producing excellent work. Their implementation is high, and I have noticed a marked increase in both confidence and participation. I look forward the team completing their qualifications with distinction”.
