Fast forward

Andrew Collinson, Operations Director for Electronic Security at Chubb explains why its new accelerated development programme is an ideal opportunity for people to retrain and seize the career they have always wanted

Currently, the global employment market is in a period of ‘Great Resignation’. The past two and half years have made many people take stock of what they value most in a job and how it fits around their personal lives.

A report from McKinley & Company reveals that employees are switching careers at record rates. Uncaring and uninspiring leaders are a big part of why people leave their jobs, as well as a lack of career development. The survey also reveals that two-thirds of employees who left their jobs in the last two years found new opportunities in completely different industries.

ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

But with this great resignation comes great opportunity, and Chubb’s new accelerated development programme is perfect for those looking to start a new career in the fire and security industry.

Our first cohort of 12 started the 18-week intensive programme at the beginning of September and are now acquiring all the necessary skills and knowledge they need to become a competent engineer.

The course is fully funded by Chubb, and together with Zitko Talent, a highly experienced training provider, we have created a ‘Chubb university’ experience. Our purpose-built classroom in Blackburn is ideal for theory and practical sessions. This blended approach covers a rich mix of topics, including industry regulations, the importance of manual handling, health and safety, how to carry out and report on risk assessments, and how to safely isolate electrical supplies.

There are also modules in fire detection, emergency lighting, and the installation and maintenance of systems. We’ve been very thorough with the content of the course because we want to ensure our new engineers can manage the whole process, end-to-end when they are out in the field.

The structure follows our internal competency matrix and features ongoing assessment. The trainees are tested on theory and practical work in the classroom, assessed in the field by their experienced mentor, and through written exams.

At the end of the 18 weeks, our new engineers will have built a strong portfolio of work and will achieve a Level 3 BTEC qualification.

They will also receive strong pastoral care from their regional team, which will enable them to confidently get out into the field and start protecting our customers.

Even when the course is completed, there remains the opportunity to learn. Our trainees are in charge of where their careers are heading.

NURTURING TALENT

We are passionate about nurturing talent and giving everyone the opportunity to become a leader. There are clear pathways for employees to develop and achieve more qualifications, all the way up to Level 6, which is the equivalent of a university degree.

We have a very successful track record of employing, nurturing and developing talent. When people join us, they stay. Our people-first ethos has created a supportive environment and presented exciting opportunities for people to build long-lasting careers.

Many of our senior leaders have worked their way up through the company, starting as trainees and apprentices. One of our most successful examples is our newly appointed Managing Director, David Dunnagan.

BUILDING GREAT LEADERS

David was appointed as Managing Director of Chubb Fire and Security UK&I in July 2022, almost 30 years after joining the company. Recently, when talking about his journey, David explained that he knew an apprenticeship would be the best route for him after school.

Growing up, David’s whole family, except for his brother, worked for British Aerospace, and David was encouraged to start an apprenticeship with them. But David was presented with an opportunity to join Chubb.

In 1993, apprenticeships were very different to what they are today. David spent four weeks a year at college in Burton-on-Trent and four weeks a year out in the field. David revealed that this style of learning suited him and ticked a lot of boxes. He said that it progressed his education while giving him hands-on experience. The on-the-job training also provided a broad mix of engineering roles within Chubb.

From engineering, David’s career progressed to business development and sales. In 2013, David celebrated a promotion to Commercial Director for Fire. The following six years, David’s role was to drive the fire solutions side of our business forward. In 2018, David celebrated his second promotion to Managing Director of Chubb Systems Limited, then four years later, he was appointed Managing Director of Chubb Fire & Security UK&I.

David’s drive and determination have earned him the position of Managing Director of Chubb, while his passion and commitment will ensure that the next wave of trainees, whether through apprenticeships or the new accelerated development programme offer a clear path for progression. David’s ambition is to make Chubb the employer of choice and help anyone who is thinking about a change in career realise their potential with Chubb.

RECRUITMENT DRIVE

Initially, Chubb plans to recruit 48 new fire and security engineers with roles available right across the whole of the UK and Ireland.

Following the completion of the first training scheme, 12 more trainees will be recruited, focusing on becoming security engineers. If you are considering a career change and would like to take control of your career, you can register your interest at: www.chubbadp.com