Emily Rock CEO of Association of Apprentices – Part 2
From influential roles at Lloyd’s Banking Group to spearheading transformative initiatives at Capita, Emily Rock’s journey from the structured world of banking to the dynamic and evolving landscape of skills and training is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz delves into Emily’s career path, exploring the complexities, triumphs, and lessons learned during her transition to the skills sector, a journey shaped by resilience and innovation, particularly amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Emily shares her unique perspective on navigating a sector often burdened by financial constraints and the ongoing struggle to attract and retain top talent. Having moved from the stability of corporate environments to the fast-paced, resource-sensitive world of training and apprenticeships, she highlights the stark contrasts in culture, priorities, and decision-making. Her insights shed light on how organizations in the skills sector must adapt and innovate to meet the growing demands of the workforce.
A major focus of their discussion is the rising demand for apprenticeships and the systemic challenges it presents. Emily speaks candidly about the increasing interest in level four apprenticeships, which offer advanced qualifications and career opportunities. However, this demand has far outpaced the availability of programs, creating a critical need for solutions. Emily emphasizes the important roles both SMEs and large corporations play in bridging this gap, offering practical strategies to encourage more businesses to invest in apprenticeship programs.
Their conversation also highlights the findings of recent research, which call for a reevaluation of financial incentives for SMEs. Emily and Safaraz discuss how reinstating these incentives could make apprenticeships more accessible to smaller organizations, allowing them to support and develop young talent effectively. They also explore the need to reframe outdated perceptions of apprenticeships, showcasing their value not just as an alternative to traditional education but as a pathway to rewarding and highly skilled careers.
Another exciting topic is the potential of degree apprenticeships, which blend academic learning with hands-on experience, providing a win-win for both employers and apprentices. Emily shares valuable advice for SMEs looking to craft impactful apprenticeship programs, offering insights on how to design opportunities that not only attract talent but also deliver long-term benefits for businesses and the wider economy.
Join us for this insightful episode as we dive into the challenges and opportunities in the skills sector, guided by Emily Rock’s inspiring vision for the future of apprenticeships.