Bentley accelerates internal promotions : Academy helps to train managers of the future

Purpose – This paper aims to examine three initiatives in the motor industry – the Bentley academy, which is helping the company to “grow its own” managers; the UK's new national Training Quality Standard (TQS), which has been introduced to recognize organizations delivering quality training and development to employers and customers; and the appointment of Gateshead College Skills Academy to provide training for the Ford Masters' Apprenticeship Programme. Design/methodology/approach – The paper outlines the origins of each of the schemes, how they were introduced and some of the results they have achieved. Findings – The paper reveals that the Bentley academy, in particular, has been very successful, enabling the company to exceed its targets and achieve 77 percent of management appointments from internal applicants. Practical implications – The paper details the value of training in various sectors of the motor industry – from luxury car‐markers to mass‐market producers. Originality/value – The paper highlights the value of applying work‐based projects in the motor industry.