Our leaders of tomorrow will kick start economy - Empey

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has highlighted the need to develop high quality managers and leaders within Northern Ireland’s business community.

The Minister was speaking today as he announced his Department’s commitment to the professional development of business leaders and managers, by sponsoring the Institute of Directors (IoD), Young Directors Forum’s programme of activity.

Established by the Institute of Directors in Northern Ireland last year, the Young Directors Forum is open to business leaders aged 43 and under, a definition set by the IoD nationally and recognising the fact that most business people do not reach the boardroom until their late 30's or 40's.

Sir Reg said: “As outlined in my Department’s Management & Leadership Development Strategy, the importance of good management and leadership skills to the future development of our economy cannot be overstated.

“Only this week a report was published assessing the level of management skills in manufacturing and tradable services firms. It highlighted that Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are in the ‘mid tier’ performing countries in terms of managerial skills with a significant gap with the likes of Germany, Sweden and Japan, which have the best management practices. So there is work to be done to raise our skill levels.

“Supporting the IoD’s Young Directors Forum is further evidence of the Department’s determination to improve our management capabilities, particularly in small to medium sized enterprises.”

The Forum is run by a steering group of IoD members, led by Chairman Paula Kane of XL-ents Limited. Ms Kane welcomed the Department’s support: “Most young business leaders recognise they have a lot to learn - from each other as well as more experienced leaders. We appreciate the Department’s commitment to the professional development of younger business leaders through our Young Directors Forum (YDF).

“Our steering group is organising a programme of activity including a young leaders event bringing together young business and political leaders, and a panel discussion at which experienced business leaders will respond to questions from YDF members. On 17 June, Kevin Houston of Anderson Manning Associates will be talking to Forum members at a breakfast meeting about motivating staff, an important issue for any organisation regardless of size of sector.”

For information on joining the Young Directors Forum and forthcoming events, contact the IoD on 028 9023 2880 or email iod.northernireland@iod.com.

Notes to Editors:

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