Roger Williams

The United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) will launch a business mentoring scheme for supply chain executives.

"There is plenty of evidence to suggest business mentoring has a positive effect on a company, whether it is a new start-up or an established organisation," UKWA CEO Roger Williams says.

The mentors, who are experienced businessmen and women, will provide guidance on developing and improving businesses; offer help with difficult decisions; suggest ideas for new products or services, or ways of working; give business tips and provide access to a network of contacts.

"A business mentor can help an individual develop key business skills, improve problem-solving abilities, build confidence and work on personal development," Williams says.

UKWA's mentoring team will comprise retired or semi-retired warehouse operators who have close links to the industry.

Williams says: "During their careers UKWA mentors may have built a warehousing business, found finance, hired and fired, squeezed assets, bought and sold companies, negotiated successfully, learned the principles of effective marketing, leadership, and lots more. They will have extensive contacts in the industry."

UKWA believes the service will be especially welcomed by company owners and managing directors, in particular those of smaller companies.

Please phone Roger Williams on +(44) 0207 836 5522 for more on the mentoring scheme or if you would like to serve as a mentor.