FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
ISS has launched a new suite of apprenticeship schemes, aimed at elevating and equipping racially and culturally diverse employees across the business with the tools, confidence and insight to lead authentically and inclusively.
The Culture, Race and Ethnicity (CRE) Leadership Apprenticeship Programme will provide development and progression opportunities for ISS employees, co-ordinated in partnership with external apprenticeship team and training partner Learnmore.
The programme combines existing leadership and management apprenticeship standards at Levels 3, 5, and 7 with a new ILM-assured Culture, Race and Ethnicity certificate. Each level has been carefully designed to empower participants through a blend of self-awareness, peer learning, and structured leadership development. This approach equips apprentices with the learning and tools they need to navigate complex workplace dynamics and to become true catalysts for change, championing equity and representation through their leadership.
The courses will focus on identity, purpose, and cultural empowerment as business leaders, while offering a valuable opportunity for cross-functional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and networking across the business.
The first round of cohorts for eligible ISS applicants commenced last month:
•Level 3 Cohort: Cultural Empowerment & Ethnic Identity Fundamental Leadership Team Leader
•Level 5 Cohort: Cultural Empowerment & Ethnic Identity Functional Leadership Operations Manager
•Level 7 Cohort: Cultural Empowerment & Ethnic Identity Strategic Senior Leader
Rebecca Jeffs, Chief People Officer, ISS UK & Ireland, said: “At ISS, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive and lead with authenticity. I’m delighted to launch these pioneering Culture, Race and Ethnicity Leadership Apprenticeships, which will empower our diverse talent to drive meaningful change. By investing in cultural empowerment and equity from the ground up, we’re building a stronger, more representative future for our business and beyond.”
Faith Mills, Commercial Director, Learnmore, said: “After the success of the Women in Leadership programmes, we’re thrilled to be partnering with ISS again to bring the Culture, Race and Ethnicity Leadership Apprenticeship Programmes to life. It’s been a genuinely collaborative journey, and we’ve been lucky to work with some incredible experts whose insight has really shaped the programme. We’re excited for it to get underway and look forward to supporting ISS’s team members as they move through their learning journey.”
