In February 2015 Mearns & Company successfully achieved Investors in Young People Accreditation, the only people management standard that focuses on the employer’s recruitment and retention of young people.

This represents a true commitment to the training and development of the staff. Following the launch of the IIYP 2nd Generation framework on 23^rd July, Mearns & Company are pleased to announce they have achieved the silver standard award.

Launched in July 2014, Investors in Young People originated through a key recommendation from the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, led by Sir Ian Wood. The accreditation is offered to all businesses across Scotland and exists to recognise and support organisations across Scotland in the employment of young people.

Catherine Bell, Operations Director of Mearns & Company, attended the IIYP 2nd Generation framework launch at Atlantic Quay, Glasgow on July 23. On collecting the award, Catherine said:

Chief Executive of Investors in People Scotland, Peter Russian, said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for Mearns & Company. The Investors in Young People framework not only recognises and supports organisations in the employment of young people, but marks them out as an employer of choice. I envisage that many organisations will follow in the footsteps of Mearns & Company, and demonstrate their commitment to young people by working with the Investors in Young People framework.”

He continued: “The advantages of recruiting and developing young people are countless. These benefits include the creation of a talent pool for the future, new and increased skills in areas such as IT and social media, fresh eyes and mind-sets into business operations along with enthusiasm and unique talents.”

Since the company was founded in 1994 young people have always been hired, and several have remained to progress and grow as the company has expanded. A supportive learning and development program is provided which enables employees to achieve professional qualifications. This helps them to advance their careers and advance within the company, while increasing their technical skills in the financial sector.

In the last few years, Mearns & Company have hosted school pupils on work experience and University students on summer placements, some of whom have gone on to join the team permanently. The company is in the process of creating a summer program for students looking for experience of working in a financial services environment, with the possibility of applying for a full time position once they have graduated.

If you would be interested in working with Mearns & Company, either full time or on a temporary placement, please contact Catherine Bell