Following on from our recent posts celebrating the success of the Aspiring Managers training course, we’re proud to spotlight another incredible journey.
This time, we’re featuring Vicki McKenzie, whose inspiring progression from Sales Manager to Branch Manager at Huws Gray Glasgow showcases the transformative impact of this program. Vicki first learned about the Aspiring Managers course from Operations Manager, Lyndsey McCuish, after applying for the Management Diploma course. While space on the diploma was limited, Vicki was encouraged to join the in-house program instead. Reflecting on that moment, she shared: “It turned out to be the perfect stepping stone for me. The course offered the knowledge and confidence I needed to bridge the gap between where I was and where I wanted to be.”
With a clear ambition to step into management, Vicki saw the course as an opportunity to develop skills she felt she lacked. “I was eager to learn more about the operational side, HR, health and safety, and finance—areas I hadn’t been directly involved in before. It gave me the confidence to believe in myself and understand that many of these skills can be developed along the way,” she explained.
For Vicki, the face-to-face training sessions were invaluable. She described how collaborating with colleagues from different branches, and hearing from senior managers who had advanced within the company, was both inspiring and motivating. “It was fantastic to see how others had progressed in their careers. Their advice and encouragement really reinforced the importance of believing in your own abilities. Plus, it was great to see the company’s commitment to investing in and promoting its own people,” she said.
The program’s TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Team Leading was another highlight, despite being a challenging return to formal learning. “Completing it was so rewarding—it had been years since I’d done anything like that,” she added.
The most significant takeaway for Vicki was gaining the confidence to apply for her current role. “I can honestly say I wouldn’t have had the courage to apply without the course. It provided me with a better understanding of the aspects of management I hadn’t previously experienced, which has been invaluable in my role as Branch Manager,” she said.
Advice for future participants
Her advice to anyone considering the course is simple but powerful: “Fully apply yourself and embrace the challenge. The knowledge and skills you gain will not only help you in your career but also boost your confidence and self-belief.”
Vicki firmly believes the Aspiring Managers course played a vital role in her recent promotion. “It gave me a clearer understanding of what’s required in a management role, from operational tasks to HR and delegation. It also showed me that you don’t need to have all the experience upfront—there’s support from colleagues and senior management to help you grow along the way,” she explained.
We’re proud to celebrate Vicki’s success and look forward to seeing her continued impact as Branch Manager.
Congratulations, Vicki!
