Name: Nicola McLaughlin
Job title: human resources manager
Company name: Cherry Valley Farms
HQ location: Rothwell, North Lincolnshire
Number of employees: 550


What's it like to work for your company? Candidates attending interviews always tells us the company has a nice feel about it. For those of us working here it is a real close-knit atmosphere, everyone really cares about the company and its success.

Why is it a good employer? We recognise our employees are what make Cherry Valley the market leader it is today and their job satisfaction and expertise are top priorities. In addition, we have a high level of long service and a strong record of people developing and moving up the career ladder within the company.

Does the company offer any unusual benefits? We recently implemented a staff loyalty card, offering discounts at local and high street stores.

How does the company differ from its rivals? Our duck is widely regarded as the best quality in the industry. We pride ourselves on treating our ducks with care, respect and even a measure of affection!

If the company were a car what would it be? An Aston Martin. Understated, with character, soul and pure quality.

What's the training like? Continual improvement is key to our HR strategy. We are in the process of opening the Cherry Valley Training Centre, where we hope to offer CIEH-accredited food manufacturing courses, continue with our internal management development programme, hold internal breakfast seminars on key topics and offer essential workplace skills to local school leavers. We are keen to continue to add value to the local community.

What's your proudest achievement of the past 12 months? Creating the core values and ensuring they are embedded within the business and everything we do it has been key in ensuring we maintain focus on our HR strategy.

What is the most important or challenging HR issue you are dealing with at the moment? Employee engagement and succession planning. Our business is going through a period of change as we progress further into the retail sector. Naturally, people can be sceptical towards change. We must minimise this by maintaining open, honest communication, utilising our training programmes and maintaining and developing a team culture. In addition, we must plan for the future and ensure we maintain and develop our internal succession programme so we are ready to deal with whatever the future holds.

How does one go about applying for a job? Either applying via our website or contacting us for an application form.

What tips would you offer job seekers? Let your true personality shine through, relax and be yourself. Also don't be afraid to ask questions.

How do I find out more about the company? Visit one of our websites:www.cherryvalley.co.uk or www.farmfreshduck.co.uk.

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