From Recruitment to Retention: Making Apprenticeships Work for Your Business

Louise Liddell

The Development Manager

Louise Liddell is the Engagement Manager at TDM, where she leads employer engagement and partnership activity that supports apprenticeship growth, skills development, and workforce transformation. Passionate about creating opportunities for learners and businesses alike, Louise works with employers across the region to help them attract, develop, and retain digital talent while supporting TDM's mission to grow tech and digital careers.

Saagar Hans

Lloyds Banking Group

Saagar Hans is an award-winning apprentice at Lloyds Banking Group and a passionate advocate for apprenticeships and early careers. Through his own apprenticeship journey, he has seen first-hand how apprenticeships can develop confidence, professional skills and long-term career opportunities.

Named Lloyds Banking Group’s Intermediate/Advanced Apprentice of the Year 2026, Saagar has shared his journey with hundreds of students and young people and has contributed to panel discussions and conversations focused on early careers and empowering the next generation of talent.

He brings the perspective of someone who has experienced an apprenticeship first-hand and is passionate about helping employers understand how investing in apprentices can develop skills, build confidence and create long-term career opportunities.

Helen Newman

Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College

Helen Newman is part of the Careers team at Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College, helping connect students with employers to create valuable work experience opportunities. She works with businesses to build partnerships that benefit both students and employers, giving young people the chance to develop essential workplace skills while helping businesses nurture future talent, gain fresh perspectives and support their local community.

Violet Williams

BMet

For more than 30 years, Violet has dedicated my career to helping young people succeed. Her passion is creating the right connections between education and industry, opening doors to opportunities that transform futures. As Work Placement Manager at BMet College, she has championed T Levels from the very beginning and built strong employer partnerships across Birmingham, contributing to a 98% placement success rate. She is proud to be recognised as a connector, leader, and advocate for young people's potential.