Sector skills council Cogent has launched a new awards scheme for the UK life sciences industry which promotes a balanced approach to recruitment and developments of talent.
The new scheme was announced yesterday by Michael Davis, chief executive at the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, at Cogent’s Annual Westminster Skills Forum.
The awards aim to promote the diverse skills routes now open to individuals wanting to work in the life sciences sector. Categories will recognise a graduate, higher apprentice, advanced apprentice and work placement of the year.
Other categories will also recognise all-round excellence in an employer’s approach to staff development, skills planning and work culture. Employer awards will be divided between global and SME companies.
The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry has sponsored the awards programme which will see its first ceremony on May 16 2013.
Stephen Whitehead, chief executive of ABPI said: “We are supporting this initiative as it will share best practice in education and skills – from apprenticeships to excellence in training – which is of course part of our own mission.”
The UK life sciences industry is worth over £50 billion to the UK economy.
To enter or book a seat at the first Life Science Skills Awards go to www.cogent-lifescienceawards.com
or call Kate Hutchins on 01925 515220
To hear more about Cogent’s motivation in launching the awards scheme see TM November.
