VFE, Europe’s leading vacuum furnace and service support provider, is investing in the personal development of its employees with a Master’s Degree support programme. The training initiative reflects VFE’s commitment to pursuing excellence within its own business and the wider industry. By the end of 2020, VFE will be funding 5 Masters Degrees covering both Business Administration and Science.
Among the employees to benefit from this opportunity is Michael Jones, Head of Projects at VFE, who has been with the company for over five years. Michael began studying for his MBA through the University of Liverpool’s online learning platform in 2018 and is due to graduate in 2021. His studies have been fully funded by VFE and Michael says the company has provided invaluable help and encouragement throughout. He comments: “VFE, and especially our CEO , David Byrne, have been very supportive, including guiding me through the rigorous MBA entry process. Studying for an MBA has been challenging but really worthwhile. I have gained confidence and valuable business management, problem solving and leadership skills that I can use in my role at VFE.” As Head of Projects, Michael is responsible for a team of six Project Managers and a network of Field Engineers. Working as part of the team he is also able to apply his existing technical engineering qualifications and experience to promote successful project execution and process development.
An MBA is a prestigious academic qualification designed to extend existing expertise and build strategic leadership capabilities, critical thinking and communication skills. It also develops a better understanding of the complex issues facing organisations in the modern world. During his MBA programme Michael has studied all aspects of business management, from finance and organisation dynamics to international and digital marketing. He believes his MBA will give him the tools to communicate more effectively on multiple topics and help to drive innovation and growth at VFE. Summing up, he says: “I am grateful to VFE for giving me the opportunity to progress through the organisation, from my first job as Senior Field Engineer and travelling the world to support our global customer base, to my present position as Head of Projects and an MBA degree.”
Commenting on the company’s career development programme, VFE’s Chief Executive Officer, David Byrne, says: “VFE is a forward-thinking company that recognises the importance of training in developing a motivated, multi-skilled workforce. We recognise that our people are our most valuable resource and are committed to empowering them to become an even greater asset to our business now and in the future.”