Bespoke University of Derby programme benefits Holcim

Successful Global RMX Concrete Management course enters its fourth year

THREE years ago, Holcim reached out to the University of Derby to create a bespoke course that would apply academic theory in the context of their business, covering marketing, operations management, finance, and strategy.

Developed with a collaborative approach, the Global RMX (Ready Mix) Concrete Management programme focuses on responding to the organization's needs and allowing participants to use the knowledge gained in a real-world setting.

The credited one-year course reaches Holcim's managers from all over the world. Residentials take place in Lyon (France), Mexico and at the University of Derby, where participants visit sites to see how the theory they have learned can be applied practically. They will also hear from speakers and take part in classroom discussions.

Throughout the week-long residential, participants will cover a 20-credit module before completing workplace-related assessments, with the support of the teaching team. Upon completing the programme, participants will achieve a postgraduate qualification in management.

Simon Smith, senior lecturer and programme leader at the University of Derby, said: ‘Working closely with Holcim in the design stages of the programme enabled us to develop a detailed understanding of the organizational needs and design a programme that is proving valuable and impactful to both the participants and the organization. 

‘The collaborative approach to the programme design has continued throughout the programme delivery, in particular application of the taught subjects to current and potential future contexts of the business.’

Noureddine Djidi, global market intelligence and business development at Holcim, added: ‘The Global RMX Managers’ Course is the backbone of our Build Beyond Strategy. It plays a central role in preparing the future leaders of the Concrete Business in Holcim by developing their in-depth knowledge of the business and strengthening their critical and strategic thinking, as well as their leadership and managerial skills. 

‘By working with the University of Derby, we have the best of both worlds. In fact, the programme perfectly combines the theory, structure and scientific rigour of academia with the hands-on and practical nature of the industry.

‘Since the launch of the programme in 2021, we have developed a strong pipeline of talented leaders capable of coping with the new challenges our industry is facing to take the Concrete Business in Holcim to the next level in terms of performance and sustainability.’