Empowering Careers: Phil’s Journey of Growth and Development at Progress
As National Apprenticeship Week unfolds, it is essential to shed light on success stories that exemplify the transformative power of apprenticeships. Phil Mcdonald, the Head of Adult Services at Progress, shares his remarkable 15-year journey within the organisation, and highlights the pivotal role apprenticeships play in professional development.
Phil’s journey at Progress commenced 15 years ago when he joined as a Senior Support Worker. His initial role within the organisation involved providing care and support. Over the years, he progressed through various roles, including a Registered Manager for short breaks and later expanded his responsibilities to oversee The Hub service.
As Progress evolved, so did Phil’s role. Services flexed to expand their reach and Phil found himself managing different facets of the organisation. In his current role as Head of Adult Serivces, he is able to utilise the wide range of experiences gained from the breadth of opportunities afforded to him within the organisation.
Phil’s Commitment to Learning
One of the key elements that fuelled Phil’s upward trajectory was his commitment to continuous learning. Progress, recognising the value of upskilling its workforce, supported Phil through various management qualifications. Phil embarked on a journey to complete his Level 5 management qualification, and he has even begun a Level 7 qualification, showcasing Progress’ commitment to providing opportunities for professional growth.
“Because of the nature of the job that we do, there’s a lot of new things all the time. So, you’re experiencing and learning a lot,” Phil said.
An essential aspect of Phil’s success story lies in his ability to strike a balance between his work responsibilities and the pursuit of qualifications. With the support of Progress, he managed to allocate time for off-the-job learning, integrating his newfound knowledge seamlessly into his daily responsibilities. This balance is crucial for any employee looking to enhance their skills while maintaining their professional duties.
Phil emphasises the importance of recognising people’s interests and tailoring apprenticeship opportunities accordingly. Whether it’s a subject specifically focused for your role or a specialised interest that just may add something extra, Progress identifies potential apprentices based on their commitment and passion. Phil encourages a culture where individuals are not afraid to think differently, allowing for lateral movements within the organisation to support personal development.
As Phil reflects on his journey, he acknowledges that the nature of the job at Progress involves constantly learning and adapting. He envisions a future where more individuals within the organisation embrace apprenticeships, recognising them not as daunting commitments but as integral parts of their day-to-day lives.
Phil Mcdonald’s journey at Progress is a testament to the organisation’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. As National Apprenticeship Week encourages reflection on success stories, Phil’s narrative stands out as an inspiration for aspiring professionals. Progress, through its unwavering support of apprenticeships, continues to shape the careers of individuals like Phil, contributing to the growth and success of both the organisation and its dedicated workforce.
“As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, I am inspired by the stories of growth and achievement within our organisation. Progress is not just a workplace; it’s a learning environment, and we are dedicated to providing unparalleled support for our team members pursuing apprenticeships,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress.
Would you like to join our amazing team? Check out available career opportunities at Progress here.