Sales development consultancy SalesStar UK is marking a major milestone having provided its first apprenticeship in the history of the SalesStar global brand.
The Huddersfield-based firm, which is the UK arm of SalesStar (global), has invested in the future of 19-year-old Dylan Cowan, appointing him as apprentice sales executive and part funding a three-year degree with Leeds Trinity University.
With youth unemployment figures drastically increasing during and post the Covid-19 pandemic, this is more than just a milestone for the firm, but also a demonstration of the commitment from businesses in the region who are nurturing local talent.
Pete Evans, managing director of SalesStar UK, said: “This is a massive moment for the entire SalesStar team. Not only have we welcomed our first apprentice, but we’ve also welcomed a truly talented and driven young man from the region to the UK team.
“I fully believe that investing in younger talent has great benefits from both a personal and business development perspective because it encourages you to consider different perspectives and constantly evolve and pivot your business based on the changing times and generations.
“Since Dylan came on board, he’s already made a massive contribution to the team and the firm, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.”
SalesStar is a sales development consultancy that provides integrated solutions to enable business owners and senior sales leaders to achieve exceptional sales results.
As an award-winning team of commercially experienced salespeople, sales leaders, sales managers, and coaches, the firm is passionate about the profession of selling and raising the performance and results of sales organisations.
Working with growth-oriented CEOs and executive sales leaders seeking tailored solutions to meet their specific needs, they combine sales specific research and proven best practices, and provide a clear path to help firms achieve their sales and business goals.
Dylan was presented with the opportunity to join the firm as an apprentice after UK partner and director Pete reconnected with his mother Michelle Cowan at Northern Affinity partners meeting earlier this year.
Having impressed the entire team throughout the interview stage, Dylan was taken on part time during the summer before becoming a full-time apprentice in September.
Alongside his studies, he will be an integral part of the firm’s growth strategy, focusing on prospecting as well identifying core opportunities to expand.
Commenting on the opportunity, Dylan said: “Not only have I been fortunate enough to grab an opportunity to follow my dreams with SalesStar, but I have also been able to build my confidence as a person.
“The last 18 months have been difficult for young people as we’ve had to isolate ourselves at a core moment in our social development. However, the team at SalesStar recognised this and did everything in their power to support me in my new role.
“Since starting, I’ve already learnt so much and just recently, I even converted a new client for the team – something I am very proud of.”
“I’d definitely recommend that other businesses follow suit and realise that investing in younger talent allows the future generation of businesspeople to come alive.”
