FM Conway appoint HR director to lead skills approach

HR specialist Liz Garvey takes full charge of strategy to recruit, train and retain the best talent

FM Conway have appointed Liz Garvey as their new human resources (HR) director as the company continues to bolster its training and recruitment approach to help tackle the construction skills gap.

A fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), Ms Garvey joined FM Conway as head of HR in 2011. She is an experienced HR professional, having previously held senior roles at a leading housing association and digital commerce specialists Pitney Bowes.

In her new position, she will oversee FM Conway’s diverse skills and training programme, with an emphasis on attracting a broad talent pool to the business and developing its in-house learning and development programme.

Commenting on her new role, Ms Garvey said: ‘The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that our sector needs to recruit more than 35,000 workers every year between now and 2021 to meet the UK’s development needs. This is a serious challenge requiring a proactive approach to seek out new talent.

‘We’re working to make construction attractive and accessible to as many people as possible – whether that’s disadvantaged groups, school leavers, career changers or returnees to work. Our skills programme combines a mix of apprenticeships, higher education scholarships, direct engagement with school children and their parents, as well as support for more experienced staff looking to make their next career move.

‘Getting people into construction is one thing. We also recognize that giving them the tools and training to stay and excel in our industry is vital, which is why, as HR director, I’ll be continuing to expand our efforts to support lifelong learning at the business.’

Joanne Garwood, central services director at FM Conway, added: ‘This appointment reflects the critical importance of our people to our business. Liz has already been a driving force behind investment in our skills programme and in her new role will now take full charge of our strategy to recruit, train and retain the best talent.’