Model management development for the Tussauds Group

Citation

(2003), "Model management development for the Tussauds Group", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 35 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/ict.2003.03735dab.002

Model management development for the Tussauds Group

Model management development for the Tussauds Group

Distance learning and practical skills are among the ingredients in a new management-development programme for the Tussaud's Group, which includes Madame Tussaud's, the London Eye and a number of theme parks in Europe.

The programme, supported by London Central Learning and Skills Council and delivered by Chameleon Training and Consulting and Aberdeen Business School, leads participants to a transferable qualification, the Certificate in Management Studies.

Nick Allsopp, Tussaud's Group training and development manager, said: "Through their collaboration, Chameleon Training and Aberdeen Business School are providing us with both academic rigour and a proven track record in delivering successful management-development programmes. Chameleon consultants understand our business and have taken into account not only what our people need to learn but also the best way in which the learning should be delivered. Providing a Certificate in Management Studies at the end of the programme is also a major incentive for participants."

Aberdeen Business School delivers four business modules covering the business environment, managing people, finance for managers, and decision making. Six skills-based modules delivered by Chameleon build on the theoretical framework and provide managers with practical techniques and strategies for motivating customer-service teams, leading change, improving performance and managing supplier relationships.

Commented Philippa Muress, head of consultancy services at Chameleon: "The skills workshops give participants the opportunity to improve their performance and contribution within the Tussaud's business. Our training is based on active, experiential learning and this varied and interactive approach helps participants to build their confidence and competence and directly aids the transfer of new skills and behaviours into the workplace."

After each core module delivered by Aberdeen Business School, managers must complete assignments that are directly relevant to their role and contribute to their qualification. This project work further underpins the motivation of managers, helping them to apply what they have learned and see what impact training can make on the business.

When students successfully complete the Certificate in Management Studies, they can study further to gain a Diploma in Management Studies. Beyond that, and following a research-methods dissertation,’they can achieve an MSc in management.

"We provide a wide range of accredited management programmes to many blue-chip organizations," explained Hugh Riddell, Aberdeen Business School business-development executive. "High-quality postgraduate qualifications are one of the foundations of effective leadership and through this programme the Tussaud's Group is equipping its staff for the many challenges they will meet."

Philippa Muress said: "What we have been able to offer through this collaboration is a programme that will directly help the Tussaud's business as well as meet individual development goals. One of today's performance motivators is for employees to gain formal recognition for the time, effort and investment they make in developing their knowledge and skills. Such recognition provides practical proof of competence as well as real value in a world where employability is a key concern."

Concluded Nick Allsopp: "The skill and dedication of our management are central to visitor enjoyment and that is why this programme is so important. It exemplifies our commitment to our staff and to the public."