ALMOST half of the employees at Northern Ireland-based Autoline Insurance have secured professional qualifications thanks to its commitment to professional development.
The numbers were revealed at the inaugural graduation ceremony of the Autoline Academy, an initiative to encourage further staff participation and recognise their achievements.
To date, almost 80 employees have secured a total of 175 qualifications, ranging from diplomas in Management Accountancy to Chartered Insurance Institute certificates. It is hoped the new academy will encourage further staff uptake.
Michael Blaney, Autoline’s managing director, said: “Creating the Autoline Academy will enhance a culture that already encourages people to develop professionally and personally.
“It’s a major reason why Autoline’s customer retention rate stands at over 90% and why the company enjoys a below average staff turnover rate.
“It takes considerable individual time and effort to achieve these qualifications, with over a dozen colleagues completing four or more professional qualifications so far.
“That’s a major accomplishment and something which the entire company takes great pride in.”
The company, which employs 170 people at its offices in Ballymena, Coleraine, Downpatrick, Enniskillen and Newry, will pay course fees and provide staff with time to study for exams.
Speaking at the ceremony in Autoline’s Newry head office was rugby commentator and former British & Irish Lion Andy Nicol. He said: “As a player, pundit and now CEO of Abstract, a business consultancy firm, I’ve had the opportunity to witness the dynamics between individual and team performances at the highest level. Initiatives such as the Autoline Academy are great ways to support professional development and create a culture based on excellence.”