Since its inception in 2015, B&M Care’s Leadership Pathway has become a cornerstone of our commitment to cultivating exceptional leaders within our organisation. With eight successful pathways to date, this initiative has not only produced fifteen accomplished Home Managers but has also facilitated numerous promotions to key leadership positions across our homes.
A few examples from the many Home Managers who were past participants include Lisa Edwards, a Senior Care Assistant who has now taken on the role of Home Manager at Willowthorpe, and Hollie Taylor, our new Manager at St Anns who participated when she was working as Deputy. Ilona Sukelovic, a shining example of the programme’s impact, transitioned from Deputy Manager at Greenhill to a vital role in our Senior Management team as an Operations Manager, utilising the insights gained from participating in one of the initial pathways.
On average, each Pathway has approximately 15 participants who embark on a journey toward fulfilling and prosperous careers at B&M Care, armed with newfound leadership skills, confidence, and a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics.
The selection process for participants is intensive, targeting individuals with existing management experience and a keen understanding of team dynamics. Enthusiasm for personal growth, leadership enhancement, and the ability to influence others are prerequisites for those aspiring to take on leadership roles within our homes.
The Leadership Pathway curriculum spans eight months, offering a diverse range of business-focused courses taught by experienced academics and consultants. From HR and finance to marketing and management styles, participants gain insights from accomplished professionals both within and outside the organisation.
Integral to the programme is the emphasis on personal effectiveness, influence, and persuasion. Participants leave with a profound awareness of their own impact and influencing styles, equipped to navigate real-world challenges in their respective homes while meeting key performance indicators to advance B&M Care’s business goals.
Expertise is drawn from our excellent contributors, combining academic excellence with real-world experience. Courses such as “Leading People and Building Teams” led by industry professionals Pam Jones and Anj Jowitt, and “Care Fees Management” taught by Nicky Cave from Eldercare Solutions, provide specialist skills and knowledge that are imperative to skilful management. Additionally, B&M Care’s senior management team, including Finance Director Trinna Bruton and Head of Training Elaine Thorpe, actively contribute to the programme. These Pathway contributors together impart essential knowledge in finance, marketing, coaching, HR and much more.
Beyond traditional lectures, the Leadership Pathway employs simulations, allowing participants to apply theoretical knowledge in a supportive environment. Culminating in a final presentation, participants showcase personal highlights, implementation strategies for their homes, and innovative initiatives inspired by the programme. These presentations are delivered to the board of directors, external contributors, and B&M Care’s Chairman and CEO.
In the most recent iteration of the Leadership Pathway, 15 participants delivered exceptional presentations, solidifying their status as B&M Care Leaders. Reflecting on their experience, one participant from a previous year expressed, “I was empowered to better myself and gained the confidence to watch my Pathway colleagues grow. I owe my current position to the opportunity to enrol in The Pathway with B&M Care.”
