Star Refrigeration's HR Team to Share Insights at Investors in Young People Event

On March 5, 2025, Gillian Dunbar, the HR Administrator at Star Refrigeration, is set to present at the esteemed Investors in Young People (IIYP) Good Practice Networking Event in Edinburgh. This event aims to foster the exchange of best practices regarding workforce development, particularly in relation to empowering young talent.

Star Refrigeration has been recognized with accreditation by Investors in People since 2003, currently holding the prestigious Platinum status, achieved in 2020, and the Investors in Young People Gold, obtained in 2017. These accolades underscore the company's commitment to maintaining a positive workplace culture. Through the implementation of IIP frameworks, Star Refrigeration has effectively instilled practices that emphasize leadership, particular attention to employee support, and ongoing improvement in key areas such as recognition, reward systems, and career development.

The IIYP event coincides with Scottish Apprenticeship Week, bringing together professionals dedicated to the recruitment, training, and retention of young talent. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain crucial insights and actionable strategies from leading organizations committed to nurturing the next generation of professionals.

In her address, Dunbar will highlight one of Star Refrigeration's five core values: 'Developing Young People.' She emphasizes the company's dedication to creating career opportunities that assist young professionals in shaping their futures through structured apprenticeship and trainee programs. Dunbar noted, “We continuously adapt our offerings based on feedback from young individuals to ensure the best possible developmental pathways.” Furthermore, Star Refrigeration has amplified its engagement initiatives in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, heightening awareness about the diverse job opportunities available and encouraging a more inclusive talent pipeline.

Among the initiatives Dunbar will present is the Star Academy program, which aims to connect undergraduates with real-world work experience, bridging the gap between education and employment. Launched in December 2023, the program has successfully engaged students in various departments, including design, sales and marketing, sustainability, HR, and engineering. Students have benefited from flexible work arrangements, bursaries, and potential full-time employment upon graduation, showcasing the program's success in aligning educational pursuits with industry needs.

Dunbar will also speak about recruitment strategies informed directly by feedback from young employees. Recent enhancements have included expanding the number of trainers available, reducing training durations through enhanced mentorship programs, and improving overall engagement with apprenticeships. As a result, Star Refrigeration has witnessed a significant rise (by 50-60%) in apprenticeship applications, a streamlined training process, and a burgeoning pool of young talent within the organization.

The IIYP Good Practice Networking Event provides a unique platform for idea exchange, fostering collaboration among organizations passionate about nurturing skilled professionals. For more information about the IIYP event, attendees can visit the official event page. Furthermore, individuals interested in exploring Star Refrigeration's comprehensive approach to people development can check the company's careers page.

In conclusion, the commitment of Star Refrigeration to develop young talent illustrates not only a strategic business approach but also a profound dedication to the future workforce. As Gillian Dunbar prepares for her presentation, her insights reflect a broader trend within industry leaders to prioritize workforce development, particularly in fostering opportunities for youth, thereby ensuring a thriving, innovative, and productive future in the workforce.