Developing individuals, developing business

Purpose This paper aims to explore the subject of individual development, the benefits it offers to a business and tips for making it a success. Design/methodology/approach Sadie Lofthouse is Head of Human Resources at Adnams, the award-winning brewer, distiller and retailer, a company that successfully gained its Gold IIP status in 2013. Findings Successfully developing individuals depends on engaging your workforce through tactics such as setting professional Personal Bests and encouraging people to realise new skills through participating in activities outside of their usual remit. Originality/value Heading up HR at Adnams, a company that’s ethos is to “do good”, Sadie is passionate about the role business has to play in supporting education, and works with schools, colleges and training providers to help drive standards and prepare young people for work. Her approach embodies the innovation the company employs in every area of the business.