Conference and training provider Salford Professional Development (SPD) has marked out a £1 million revenue target for its new executive education division.
Accountant Alison Kennedy will lead the new division as its director, supported by Phil Whitman as head of executive education with Jennie Jacobs and David Daniels spearheading the sales operation.
SPD hopes the division will account for 25 per cent of overall revenues in the firm’s next financial year.
Read: Revenues hit £3.6 million at SPD
SPD chief executive Marc Davis said the move to establish a new branch of SPD reflects growing demand as UK employers seek to engage their staff more effectively and to retain key talent.
He added: “For organisations to thrive and grow, they must be led with a clear vision and strong leadership ethos.
“We have developed the new division to equip current and aspiring leaders at every level – from junior managers to chief executives – with the skills they need to succeed.”
Ms Kennedy has been promoted from her role leading SPD’s programme of courses for the Institute of Directors.
Phil Whitman has returned to SPD after a spell at business journalism firm Insider Media. He first joined SPD in 2013 as its head of sponsorship.
Marc said: “With Alison’s keen eye for detail and Phil’s commercial experience, we are looking forward to the executive education division being a huge success.
“It forms a significant part of our overall growth strategy.”
Salford Professional Development was established in 2012 as a subsidiary of the University of Salford.
It runs conferences and events, CPD courses and bespoke and in-house training for the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.
Main image (L-R): Jennie Jacobs, Alison Kennedy, Phil Whitman, David Daniels
