Gestamp boss Jonathan Phillips is proud of the company ’ s record of producing local apprentices .
“ WE ’ VE GONE FROM THAT SMALL ENGINEERING COMPANY TO A BUSINESS THAT EMPLOYEES MORE THAN 1,000 PEOPLE ON OUR SITE .”
The business is also a proud employer of local people , with 85 per cent of the workforce living within five miles of the plant .
These staff are well supported by the organisation , with trained mental health first aiders and a health and wellbeing lead supporting staff .
A new staff health and wellbeing centre is also in the pipeline , while family events such as a recent pantomime also enable staff to enjoy treats for their families free of charge .
The firm also has a charity committee that supports local good causes that are often close to their employees ’ hearts .
And this commitment to improving the lives of the local workforce and the wider community has undoubtedly contributed to 75 years of success for the business .
Jonathan says : “ We are truly global in terms of what we produce , but truly local in terms of the demographic of our workforce .
“ Our core business is manufacturing products out of metal and shipping them to customers , but we do it with compassion , integrity and empathy towards the needs of our employees .”
This makes Gestamp Tallent an employer of choice , as well as a respected part of the local community .
The firm has regular open market days showcasing the skills and capabilities of its staff and hopes to open a new reception centre to showcase its design and manufacturing capabilities .
Gestamp Tallent is hopeful that in the next 75 years , it can sustain its position as a global leader in car parts manufacturing , whilst also developing new , more efficient ways of working , embracing new technology and becoming more environmentally sustainable .
Jonathan says : “ It ’ s a challenge , but we continue to win the work that will allow us to sustain our position and our size .”
The magazine for Aycliffe Business Park | 19