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The most rewarding aspect of my role is seeing staff learn different trades from scratch
Chris continues : “ We both began an apprenticeship in the late 90s : Nick with the family business and me with Thompson Vauxhall . These opportunities enabled us to develop the practical knowledge required to do our jobs and to gain a solid understanding of how to develop the business moving forward . In 2003 , Martin Williams became a limited company and with it , Nick and I were both made directors . While a massive responsibility at an early age , it was something we both relished .
Recruitment drive
“ Our biggest challenge as directors is , of course , the day-to-day management of the business . We strive to have the right management team around us to assist with everything from delivering on customer expectation to managing cash flows and staff numbers . Our team does a fantastic job , handling many large contracts . Although we are heavily involved , we would not be the company we are today without them ,” Chris enthuses .
“ With some older staff members retiring , the business has taken on new apprentices to learn the trades and plug the gap . We work with local colleges to recruit staff and try to take on at least three apprentices per year . We offer in-house training and pair up every new member of staff with an experienced colleague . We have also recently showcased the business at a local school to advertise what we can offer potential candidates .” This recruitment drive has proved very successful and will be repeated .
Chris continues : “ The most rewarding aspect of my role is seeing staff learn different trades from scratch , watching them come into the business with the correct attitude and a willingness to learn , then developing their skill sets to the point where they are finishing their own jobs with pride and care . I also take great pride in seeing customers return to us when they ’ ve been happy with the quality and delivery of our service .”
The business has recently invested in new equipment for the workshop including welders , fabrication equipment , a wheel alignment system for the accident repair and maintenance department , and most recently , a heat inductor to assist in straightening chassis on the commercial jig .
“ Later this year , we will be transferring the business onto a new data management system called SAPs which will massively transform everything we do and bring long term efficiency benefits and savings .
“ Our company culture has never been better . We try to maintain the family feel no matter how much the company grows , and we work with all our staff to create a friendly , collaborative atmosphere with a common goal of delivering quality workmanship in a timely manner .”
Investing in the future
While the sector is not renowned for being the most environmentally sustainable , Martin Williams strives to recycle and reuse as much waste as possible . The facility is fitted with solar panels and LED lighting to reduce energy consumption and costs and its overall impact on the environment .
“ EV vehicles are the future , and we are heavily invested in ramping up the work we do within that field . We have installed two EV charging points at the site so we can charge our own vehicles as can visiting customers ,” he elaborates .
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