Managers become first professionally qualified workforce in UK retail banking

Halifax branch managers have become the first ever professionally qualified workforce to achieve vocational Advanced Diplomas in Retail Banking Practice.

The qualification was achieved as part of Halifax's vocational programme for its branch managers. Some 35 branch managers have recently passed their Advanced Diploma and a further 180 branch managers will complete the qualification this year.

The programme which is known as ‘Journey in Practice' was first introduced by Halifax in January 2010 and is compulsory for all Halifax branch managers.
 
The qualification is being run in partnership with Middlesex University, branch managers are enrolled as distance learners at the University and receive two dedicated tutor days and one additional study day.

More than 400 branch managers, 66%, have completed the mandatory elements and been awarded 30 University credits. They now have the opportunity to study further and convert the points awarded into an Advanced Diploma. Halifax is aiming to have all managers through the mandatory elements of the qualification by the end of 2011.

The professional qualification focuses on a framework of best practice for the branch manager role including how to enhance their skills. Halifax has developed the course to ensure a consistently high level of service and professionalism for customers.

‘Our pioneering partnership with Middlesex University to develop an aspirational work based learning qualification has been a real hit with our branch leadership teams,’ said Colin Kemp, Halifax community bank network director.

‘The level of uptake is a real sign of our branch managers' commitment to bettering themselves and taking every opportunity to improve the service delivery for their customers. By having professionally qualified branch managers, we are really giving our customers confidence and trust in our people,’ he added.

One of the participants, Jo Hawkes, branch manager at Halifax Barkingside, recently received her Advanced Diploma and said it was worth the work. ‘The insight I have gained about my branch, customers and colleague has been invaluable,’ she explained.

‘This is a pioneering and innovative programme and clearly demonstrates the commitment that Halifax has to developing their staff, driven by their desire to win back customer trust. We're delighted to be partnering Halifax in such an exciting and worthwhile programme,’ said Michael Driscoll, vice chancellor of Middlesex University.