A manager with packing line equipment specialist Ishida Europe has become the first student to graduate from an innovative new management degree programme at the University of Worcester.
Darren Chandler has successfully completed the three-year Senior Leadership Management Degree Apprenticeship (SLMDA) programme, which combines a traditional Masters in Business Administration (MBA) with an apprenticeship. This has enabled Darren to further enhance his practical skills, while at the same time gaining the proficiencies and knowledge of an MBA, which as well as leadership and management also includes disciplines such as marketing, finance and human resources. The successful completion of the apprenticeship also brings the added benefit of Chartered Manager status.
The SLMDA has been a key part of Darren’s career development programme within Ishida Europe, which he joined in 2008, and has led to his recent promotion to General Manager, Protein Solution Sales. In this new role, he will be responsible for business development and growth in the protein sector throughout the EMEA region, including the overseeing of major projects for meat and poultry applications.
“I started my career over 30 years ago through the traditional apprenticeship route, but I wanted to gain a degree-level qualification in leadership and management to support my career progression,” explained Darren. “The combination of practical work and theory offered by the University of Worcester course was ideal, and it has given me a further set of skills that I can put to great use in my daily activities.”
The SLMDA and other external courses support Ishida’s own comprehensive in-house training programmes.
“At Ishida, we believe in supporting colleagues in their personal development to achieve their career ambitions within our company,” commented Sarah Hughes, HR Director. “Darren’s achievement demonstrates his talent, commitment and dedication, and his success is well deserved.”
Dr Scott Andrews, Deputy Head of School at Worcester Business School, said: “Darren has been an all-round team player and demonstrated key leadership and management competencies throughout his time on the programme. I am delighted that he has completed his apprenticeship to become the first SLMDA graduate from the University.”