EMS is proud to announce that we have been named Small Business Employer of the Year at the inaugural Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards, hosted by Herefordshire Growth Hub. The awards evening brought together local employers, training providers and apprentices to celebrate the achievements, dedication and positive impact of apprenticeships across the county.
It was a fantastic evening and a real privilege to attend the very first ceremony, recognising the vital role apprenticeships play in strengthening local businesses and developing future talent in Herefordshire. The EMS team was delighted to be represented on the night by two of our Level 3 Business Administration apprentices Olivia & Morgan, alongside our Marketing Manager Lucy Harris, who joined the celebrations and collected the award on behalf of the company.
At EMS, our approach to apprenticeships is founded on a long-standing belief that excellence in professional services begins with investing in people. Apprenticeships are not viewed as a separate initiative but as a core part of our recruitment strategy, business improvement cycle, and long-term growth.
As a locally rooted Herefordshire employer with more than 20 years’ experience, EMS has developed a strong home-grown culture focused on developing and retaining talent. Many of our team members have progressed into senior positions through hands-on training and long-term development opportunities, reflecting our commitment to supporting individuals into professional careers, regardless of traditional academic routes.
Apprentices play an active and meaningful role within EMS from day one. Rather than temporary roles, apprentices are fully integrated into the business, working closely with experienced colleagues and receiving direct mentorship from management. Within our administration department, apprentices currently make up a significant proportion of the team, contributing to daily operations while developing practical skills and professional confidence.
The success of this approach is evident throughout the organisation. Many team members who joined EMS as trainees have progressed into senior and leadership positions, demonstrating how apprenticeships support succession planning, knowledge retention and long-term stability.
EMS remains committed to creating opportunities within Herefordshire by nurturing local talent and supporting workforce development across the region. By providing accessible career pathways and practical training opportunities, we help strengthen the local economy while building a skilled and resilient future workforce.
Receiving the Small Business Employer of the Year award is a a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our entire team. We extend our sincere thanks to Herefordshire Growth Hub for hosting such a successful inaugural event and for recognising the importance of apprenticeships in shaping the future of local Herefordshire industry.
We would also like to congratulate all finalists, nominees and apprentices celebrated on the evening.
We are incredibly proud of our team and remain committed to investing in people, delivering exceptional service, and supporting the continued growth of skills and opportunities within Herefordshire.
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