Hull-based global graphics and brand specialist Trident has launched a new training academy as it looks to keep top talent in the city.
The firm, based in Kingswood, has always put people at the heart of its work, and will expand its current learning programmes through the new academy.
The academy will officially launch in January, but the first batch of graduates have already joined up with Trident at its site in Hull.
It is hoped once established, the model can be rolled out to the company’s sites across the world.
With offices in Brazil, USA, India, Australia and Singapore, Trident has grown into a truly global name.
Kirsty Bark, global talent manager at Trident, said: “We have always run early careers provision, but decided we wanted to do more.
“The new academy means anyone who comes for placements at Trident will go through the same four-week induction, which covers branding and personal development.
“If at the end of their placement here, they want to stay at the company, then brilliant, but if not we want to make sure they are as employable as possible and stay in the region.”
The new academy will engage with all early careers, from apprenticeships and internships to industry placements and short-term work experience.
Those in the academy will benefit from specialist workshops in personal branding, networking, communication and team work.
Trident has also introduced a bespoke development programme, which will run alongside the person’s placement.
It includes a buddy system, in the shape of a Trident employee who is on hand to help and provide advice where needed.
Ms Bark said: “We have currently got a group of seven, who are the first ones at Trident going through this new approach.
“They have been through an extensive recruitment process, and have been selected on attitude and not necessarily skillset.
“They have all bonded very well, which is great to see. For a young person coming into the world of work, it can feel like there is still a lot of training and learning to do. That is where the academy can help.”
Trident specialises in graphics and pre-media services for packaging and brand assets.
The business creates digital artwork which is used in everything from TV commercials and websites to shampoo bottles and chocolate bars.
Carla Hamlyn, one of the new intakes at Trident, said: “When I came in did not know whether there would be one apprentice, or five or 10, so having a group around you is really good.
“We are all at our own desk with people who are training us, so it is focused on you.
“It is also the opportunities you are presented with. I have been here three weeks and have already been to an expo, had a lot of training sessions, and I have a knowledge of what everyone does which is really helpful.”
Fellow intake Lee Pearson said: “I think from my perspective it is the opportunities which have been given.
“It is the only company which matches what they say happens within the organisation. Age does not matter, you have the chance to go abroad and travel to different regions, and if you want to learn something new to add to your role you are able to move into that department for a few days and learn how others have done it.
“I found that really beneficial.”
