Star Refrigeration’s HR Administrator to Speak at Investors in Young People Event in Edinburgh
Star Refrigeration’s HR Administrator, Gillian Dunbar, has been invited to speak at the prestigious Investors in Young People (IIYP) Good Practice Networking Event in Edinburgh on March 5, 2025. The event aims to provide a platform for organizations to share best practices on workforce development, with a particular focus on empowering young talent.
Star Refrigeration, accredited by Investors in People since 2003, holds Platinum status and Investors in Young People Gold, demonstrating its commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture. Through the implementation of IIP frameworks, the company has embedded practices that promote leadership, employee support, and continuous improvement in areas such as recognition, reward, and career development.
The IIYP networking event coincides with Scottish Apprenticeship Week and will bring together professionals involved in the recruitment, development, and retention of young people. Attendees can expect valuable insights, actionable strategies, and opportunities to learn from leading organizations dedicated to nurturing young talent.
Gillian Dunbar, HR Administrator at Star Refrigeration, stated, “One of our five core values is ‘Developing Young People,’ and we are dedicated to creating career opportunities that support young professionals in building their future through our apprenticeship and trainee programs. We continuously listen to young people to ensure we provide the best possible development pathways for them.”
The company has expanded its STEM engagement initiatives to raise awareness of the industry and the diverse range of job opportunities it offers. By attracting a more diverse pipeline of future talent, Star Refrigeration aims to create a more inclusive workplace.
One of the company’s initiatives aimed at broadening its talent pipeline is the Star Academy. This program connects undergraduates with work experience opportunities, allowing students to gain hands-on industry exposure and bridge the gap between education and employment. Since its launch in December 2023, the program has seen significant success, with students benefiting from flexible term-time work, bursaries, summer placements, and potential full-time employment upon graduation.
Gillian will discuss Star Refrigeration’s attraction and recruitment strategies, which have been shaped by direct feedback from young employees. Recent improvements include expanding the number of trainers, reducing training duration through increased mentorship, and increasing apprenticeship engagement. These changes have resulted in a 50-60% rise in apprenticeship applications, a streamlined training process, and a significant increase in young talent within the organization.
The IIYP Good Practice Networking Event offers a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, gain insights, and support the next generation of skilled professionals. For more information about the event, visit [Eventbrite link]. For information on Star Refrigeration’s people development initiatives, visit [Star Refrigeration website].
In conclusion, Star Refrigeration’s commitment to developing young talent and fostering a positive workplace culture is evident through its participation in events like the IIYP Good Practice Networking Event. By sharing best practices and engaging with industry professionals, the company continues to pave the way for the next generation of skilled professionals. Join us in supporting and nurturing young talent for a brighter future.
