Mallusk organisation picks up IIP award

The presentation ceremony took place in the Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings.

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry, special guest at the event, said: “This is a very special occasion as it celebrates Northern Ireland’s businesses going above and beyond excellence, through Investors In People.

“Obviously, it is satisfying to receive your IIP accreditation, but the real cause for celebration is the improvements in your organisations brought about as a result of hard work and commitment in effectively managing and developing your most important asset – people.

“Those organisations achieving IIP accreditation have demonstrated a clear commitment to continuing to invest in their people - and are indeed seeing the business benefits of doing so.”

Extern employs 350 members of staff in Mallusk.

Extern Works offers training and support services to individuals from a range of disadvantaged backgrounds including the homeless, ex offenders, people with mental health issues and individuals with learning difficulties.

The main operation provides training and qualifications as well as “real life” work experience set within a supported training environment.

Extern Recycle provides a disposal service to any size of business.

It delivers services through working with homeless people by providing work experience and training opportunities that supports independent living and employment.

Since 1991, Investors in People has set the standard for better people management. The standard defines what it takes to lead, support and manage people well.

Successful accreditation against the Investors In People standard is the sign of a great employer who understands that it is people that make the difference. 

Paul Devoy, head of Investors In People, said: “Achieving the Investors In People standard is something that any organisation should be truly proud of.

“Working with Investors In People inspires and enables leaders, managers and employees at all levels to build their skills, improve their performance and achieve their potential.

“We’d like to congratulate all the organisations here in Northern Ireland on their achievement.”

“Based on a tried and tested methodology of leading practice and a rigorous process of assessment, organisations that achieve Investors In People, like those who celebrated on June 26, proudly display their accreditation to the world.”