Manufacturer recognised for developing next generation of talent

Lead products manufacturer Midland Lead is celebrating after being shortlisted for awards recognising the best manufacturers in the UK.

The family-run form has been shortlisted in the Developing Future Talent category at the MAKE UK Manufacturing Awards 2025.

The journey towards such recognition began a decade ago, when the firm, which was founded in 1983, set out a long-term vision to be an “employer of choice”.

It invested in a new pay and progression structure, enabling its team to see how they could develop and progress with increased skills.

It also designed a new in-house initiative, modelled on East Midlands Chamber’s Generation Next programme, to nurture talent, build confidence and help its people see themselves not just as employees, but as valued and empowered members of ‘Team Midland Lead’.

With the help of external coach Vicky Blissett , of Pro Populus Coaching, the approach was refined – and has since addressed real workplace issues, such as improving safety and efficiency, mentoring, communication and sharpening production processes.

Vicky said: “Our initial vision for Generation Next was to grow the talent pool at Midland Lead.

“I am delighted that over time the programme has evolved to deliver much more in terms of individual growth, team communication and confidence.

“Generation Next has empowered our people to grow and develop by contributing to real business challenges and outcomes.

“It has been great to see Midland Lead team members rise to the challenge of development and achieve so much for themselves and the company, helping to future-proof the business for the next generation.”

Charlotte Summers, operations excellence manager at Midland Lead, who began her career at the firm in 2018 as purchasing co-ordinator, said: “Personally, the programme has had a huge impact on me.

“It has been instrumental in my development and is a key reason why I’m now managing operations.”

Speaking about its MAKE UK Awards nomination, Midland Lead said: “At Midland Lead, we’ve always placed our people at the heart of everything we do. So, we’re really happy to be shortlisted.

“This milestone is recognition of our team’s commitment to growth and learning and building our sustainable future together.

The winners for the Midlands and East region will be announced an awards dinner at the University of Warwick, in Coventry, on 4 November.