Fix Auto UK has given its full support to Apprenticeship Central, the unique recruitment organisation dedicated to serving the vehicle repair sector.
The endorsement could not have been better timed as across the country businesses are celebrating the 18th annual National Apprentice Week (February 10-16). The national campaign echoes the wider need for employers to fill skills gaps to help grow their business.
Fix Auto UK was the first organisation in the industry to partner with Apprenticeship Central under the ownership of the late Bob Linwood. Bob was a tireless advocate for young people, dedicating his time to creating clear pathways into the industry for them. His loss was profoundly felt by many, and his unwavering commitment continues to inspire our passion for carrying forward his legacy. The partnership formalises the Group’s focus on recruiting and retaining apprentices.
Apprenticeship Central and Fix Auto UK are now building on Bob’s legacy following the announcement the business is now led by Eleanor Baker Barnes as Commercial Director and Fix Auto Dagenham’s Director Chris Oliver. Together, the two businesses will strive to bring the next generation of talent into the group and showcase the opportunities within the industry that offer skills for life.
Cheryl Chung, who is leading the development and delivery of Fix Auto UK’s ESG strategy, said: “The future of the vehicle repair sector depends on our commitment to investing in the next generation of technicians, Fix Auto UK fully endorses Apprenticeship Central and its recruitment platform. Young talent is the backbone of our industry, and through our nationwide network of Franchise Partners, we’re dedicated to creating opportunities that develop the next generation of top-tier technicians.”
Operations Director Mark Hutchins added: “Similarly to when Bob was at the helm, our focus hasn’t changed and Apprenticeship Central, under Eleanor and Chris’s ownership, has our full support.
“Recruitment, particularly apprentices, is vital to the future of the industry. Recruiting and managing apprentices has its challenges and we are pleased to have Apprenticeship Central in our corner to guide and drive our apprenticeship goals. Bob’s sudden passing stunned us all, but we are delighted the business is in the safest hands possible as we and our Franchise Partners look to bring new talent.”
Eleanor said, “The Apprenticeship Central Team is delighted to be re-establishing our relationship with the Fix Auto UK network. Bob had previously laid the foundations, and we’re excited to build on that momentum to support the network’s goals of bringing more young people into the industry. As industry leaders, Fix Auto UK and its Franchise Partners offers an inspiring environment for apprentices to launch their careers and we’re proud to play a part in nurturing the next generation of talent.”
Chris concluded: “Everyone who knows me knows just how passionate I am at constantly identifying and bringing new talented young people into the industry. It really cannot be understated just how important it is for the future of our industry. Partnering with Eleanor and building upon Bob’s legacy really is a privilege. Receiving the full support of Fix Auto UK is a significant endorsement.”
