Window of opportunity

Many people consider working their way up the corporate ladder a distant dream, but three employees of the Camden Group have proved that if you are willing to work hard, the rewards are not out of everyone’s reach.

The Antrim-based company encourages employees to progress through the company and up the ranks, to progress their careers to new levels.

Employee Gary Malone discussed his career at the Camden Group, which is now in its 16^th year.

“I saw an advert for the Camden Group and I knew it was a family run company which appealed to me, so I applied,” he said. “I got the job as product manager, which I loved, and I have recently taken on the role as quality manager. I wanted a change and to develop skills in a new area. I would recommend working at the Camden Group to anyone. They really look after their people, and if you show an interest in the business, there’s always room to move up.”

The Camden Group also has a substantial female work force on the factory floor.

Louise Carleton said: “I originally came to Camden as a factory operative, fitting the rubber seals around the window frames. Since then I have been involved in many production processes for the various products. I’m now the windows factory production manager. I love it here, they’re a great team. That’s why I have been here 19 years.”

Another member of the Camden Group team who has worked his way up through various roles is Johnny Hazzard.

“I joined Camden working in the panel factory, and I have also worked with the CNC writer and in the decorative glass section,” he said. “I have had the opportunity to try many roles here which is great. Camden has invested in me by sending me on training courses for forklift truck driving and first aid.”

Sales manager Roy Harrison said: “Employee retention makes sense on so many levels. Recruitment is both time consuming and expensive, so it pays to invest in the employee’s needs and listen to them when they have something to say.

“The team here are not just names on the payroll, they are all individuals with skills and qualities. Everyone here has the opportunity to progress their careers if they wish to, which we actively encourage.”