Parker Building Supplies Awards Apprentices

Eight trainees at Parker Building Supplies (PBS) have been presented with certificates for successfully completing their apprenticeship learning programmes.

The apprentices spent 12 months learning the ropes at the independent timber and builders’ merchants, which employs 250 people at 24 branches across the South East, including Eastbourne.

Seven of the trainees received their certificates from national training provider assessor, Alison Howe from Didac, and the other certificate was presented by PBS’ Operations Manager, Phil White, for successfully completing the Freight Transport Association’s course on transport and distribution. All trainees also received a bonus to recognise their achievements.

Phil said: “I remember how I was encouraged to train and learn in my early career and it was so important. We’re delighted with the success of our eight trainees and they will be offered further training in the future, so that they can continue to develop.”
Meanwhile, three other PBS staff have been awarded a Post Graduate Diploma in Independent Merchant Leadership and Strategy. Marketing Manager, Jamie Pierce, Crowborough Branch Manager, Lee Church and Purchase Ledger Assistant, Jake Feek were all presented with the accolades from the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) at Birmingham City University’s Winter Award Ceremony.

Jamie, who is also Chair of the BMF’s Young Merchants Group, said: “I really respect the BMF, so to receive this diploma was fantastic for all three of us. We were part of the first cohort on this new course and we are all going to continue our studies towards a merchant-specific Master’s degree.”