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Industrial Technology Systems (ITS) has appointed George Ritchie MBE as a non-executive director in a move designed to support the government’s initiative to deliver high quality apprenticeships across the north.

George, who chairs and leads the North East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (NEAAN), will continue to support and drive engagement of apprentices in the region.

The North East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (NEAAN) is a key driver for apprenticeships across the region and is passionate about getting more employers and apprentices involved in sharing their experiences and telling their stories about how apprenticeships have changed lives and improved business performance.

George takes to ITS a wealth of experience and knowledge at the highest level, sitting alongside his skills, knowledge and experience.

George and the network are part of a national group that works as the employer voice with the government on developing and shaping apprenticeship policy.

ITS Managing Director, Malcolm Knott said:

“I was very proud to welcome George into ITS as a business with a heritage of providing apprenticeships opportunities.

“ITS is committed to the apprenticeship agenda, especially here in the North-East, and through our support to George. I believe we are an essential cog in the process industry supply chain, supporting the automation, control and data management across the whole sector.

“Our commitment to apprenticeships over our 29 years, including supporting NEAAN through George, demonstrates our support of people in the sector and our belief in the apprenticeship route to acquiring the skills the industry needs now and in the future.”

Jason Holt CBE, chief executive officer of The Holts Group and national chair of the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, commented:

“We believe this is a very positive step for the NEAAN, with George and ITS working together being crucial to the continuing success of the program.

“We know ITS will gain significantly from having George’s expertise to call on for their own apprentice development”

Credit: Tees Business