JULIE DEELEY Director of operations at EN:Able Futures
Can you tell us about EN:Able Futures?
Following the successful appointment as one of 16 Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Agencies registered with the government, EN:Able Futures is offering its unique service in the North East. We operate on a not-for-profit basis and share the same values and commitment to increasing training and employment opportunities in housing and construction in communities that have been hardest hit by the current economic climate and the loss of traditional industries. EN:Able Futures is the only organisation in the North East providing a Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Service in construction, and will be recruiting apprentices for organisations operating in the construction and built environment sector from the Tees Valley up to the Scottish Borders. Our Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Service has had huge success across Yorkshire and the Humber and we are immensely proud that, over the last nine years, we have employed over 430 apprentices hosted by 113 organisations, supported young people to achieve their career aspirations, won many awards and built strong employer and client partnerships. We want to replicate this across the North East.
What is your role?
I am director of operations. Essentially I run EN:Able Futures reporting into the board and our chief executive, Lee Parkinson who sit within our parent company Efficiency North Holdings Ltd. I have over 30 years of experience in managing successful programmes and interventions to support local unemployed individuals secure sustainable employment.
What is your proudest business achievement?
Being appointed director of operations in 2019, is definitely a highlight as has helping develop the team and the business. Most of all, it has been wonderful to think that we have enabled young people to progress in their careers and the organisations who have benefitted from their skillset.
How has the industry changed since you began your career?
There are so many ways – the skills shortage continues to prove problematic and is frustrating. On a positive note, there is now a much better understanding amongst employers who recognise the need for apprentices.
What do you think are the opportunities going forward?
We have wanted to expand into the North East for a long time. We want to create apprenticeships across the region, expand our services and support both organisations and apprentices to become successful.
What is your mantra to do business by?
It has to be our company values and they are: We care. That’s why our team dedicate so much time to our apprentices, and work hard to help them achieve their aspirations. We also are passionate about helping businesses to meet the skills their company needs. We aim high. Our apprentices aim high too! We want everyone to achieve their aspirations. We enjoy. We love our work and our passion is so obvious and transfers to those we work with. We are aware. We know what is affecting businesses and we are here to help, and can bring others together to help us all meet our objectives. We give. Our work goes back into the communities we work to make a positive difference to all. We save. We save your business time in recruiting by looking after your apprentice recruitment needs. And importantly…We make it happen together. Without you all we wouldn’t be where we are today.
