Weir : Supporting First Line Leadership at Weir

Attracting, retaining and developing exceptional people are vital factors for Weir's success. There are a number of strong resources in place to help support these goals, and the Weir First Line Leadership Program is one example designed to support the development of the next generation of exceptional leaders. Available to employees globally, the First Line Leadership Program provides access to high quality professional development tools, academic insight, and technical support online, so emerging leaders are well-equipped for their future with Weir. Since launch in June 2014, over 1,100 Weir colleagues have embarked on the program, with 10,815 learning assets completed and over 4,000 training hours recorded.

Recently, Weir Valves & Controls USA Inc. (WVC USA), proudly introduced its first team of graduates from the Weir First Line Leadership Program. Four colleagues started training in February 2016 with a visit from Jim McHarg, Group HR Director for Organizational Development. After Jim's introduction to the Program, Laura Schelkle, HR Director for Weir Valves & Controls USA, led the training through to completion. Laura commented: 'Leading a cross functional team through this Program was a great opportunity for the participants to learn from each other and define ways we can work together more effectively.' The graduating class included Kevin McPherson, Rob Colbert, Lonny Pygman and Stephen Szpak from the Ipswich facility (pictured above).

When asked what the program meant to him, Inside Sales Manager Stephen Szpak, replied: 'The Weir First Line Leadership Program provided me with a better understanding of my role in leading a team that is in sync with the Weir values and mission. Having a cross functional group of peers in the course was instrumental in making this training a success. It presented us with a different perspective on everyday issues, giving us a better understanding of how our decisions affect every part of the business.'

Following on from this pioneering group of four, another team is currently working to graduate in 2018. The Weir First Line Leadership Program has been much more than just a training program; it has been a conduit to positive cultural changes for the business. Mark Claffey, President of Weir Valves & Controls USA, concluded: 'The Weir First Line Leadership Program is a great example of Weir investing in our employees and also inspiring employees to further develop their leadership skills. Thanks again to the participants and Laura Schelkle for leading a successful program that will provide immediate benefits to our customers and organization.'

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