NEW APPRENTICE QUARTET FORM KBS CORPORATE’S ‘CLASS OF 23’

Four new Business Sales Apprentices have begun their journey with KBS Corporate, aiming to launch successful careers while studying for a professional qualification.

Morgan Pickles, Nathaniel Reed, George Neal and Byron Weeks started their onboard training at head office in Bolton on September 18 2023, taking their initial steps along K3 Capital Group’s Business Sales Apprenticeship Programme.

The programme involves work-based learning – earn as you learn – combined with academic studies leading towards the target of a professional qualification via a Level 6 apprenticeship in business-to-business sales.

The degree course runs for three years and the apprentices will spend a minimum of 20% of their time learning and studying through Leeds University. If they complete the course successfully, they will receive a degree.

Here’s what the apprentices will gain from the programme:

• Opportunity to work with experienced skilled professionals across the sales function
• BSCc (Hons) professional practice in Business-to-Business Sales qualification
• Training, support and guidance from experts in their field
• Hands-on experience that will drive their career

In addition, a further 15 degree apprentices are beginning programmes across the wider K3 Capital Group.

Louise Roberts, Chief People Officer at K3 Capital Group, said: “We are so excited to have 19 degree apprentices joining us across KBS Corporate, Knightsbridge and Quantuma whilst undertaking their degrees.

“Our team members have been welcoming Morgan, Nathaniel, George and Byron and are helping to ensure their first few weeks with us will be a success.”

So, who are the quartet that form KBS Corporate’s ‘Class of 23’? They have described themselves in their own words:

MORGAN PICKLES

What attracted you to the K3 Group?

Initially, the degree apprenticeship role attracted me to K3 as it is an exceptional opportunity to mix academic learning with actual hands-on experience. Beyond the job role, the main thing that attracted me to K3 would have to be the opportunities for progression within the company and to be a part of a growing, industry-leading business – all whilst being surrounded by ambitious, like-minded people.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would they be and why?

If I could have dinner with two famous people, I would choose Josh Baker and Elon Musk. Josh Baker is a DJ/music producer and is a great role model for me – he is heavily into fitness and manages his own businesses. His experiences, being a successful festival organiser and provider of a music production course, would allow him to pass on valuable leadership and marketing/selling techniques. Elon Musk is the more obvious choice as he is extremely intelligent and successful. I think he would be able to give a detailed insight into his leadership and entrepreneurial methods, some of which I may then be able to implement into my own decisions. Both would offer a great insight into overcoming challenges and being resilient, presenting themselves and selling their business ideas.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Like most, I wanted to be a professional footballer, however a ‘knee injury’ prevented me from eventually turning pro. I then moved on to cars and wanted to be a presenter on Top Gear.

Tell us something nobody would know about you.

I produce my own music and DJ locally and in Manchester.

NATHANIEL REED

What attracted you to the K3 Group?

The K3 Group has a strong appeal due to its excellent reputation and commitment to providing a progressive work environment. This set-up encourages me to work diligently and tackle increasingly challenging tasks, which enables continuous learning and growth.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would they be and why?

I have an admiration for Robert Kiyosaki and his books, particularly ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’ and ‘Cashflow Quadrant’. Given the chance, having lunch with him would be a highly valuable opportunity to enhance my financial literacy. Warren Buffett, the world-renowned successful investor, would provide me with expert insights in finance and investment strategies.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

During my younger years, I aspired to become a professional basketball player in the NBA. Watching game highlights on YouTube fuelled my passion for the sport, even though I was too young to stay up and watch the real matches.

Tell us something nobody would know about you.

A lesser-known fact about me is that I hold the position of a Level 2 basketball coach and referee, allowing me to actively teach and officiate junior leagues, nurturing young talent and contributing to the sport I love.

GEORGE NEAL

What attracted you to the K3 Group?

I was attracted to the K3 Group by the success and growth of the company thus far. I also saw myself as a good fit for the company. I felt a great vibe when meeting a portion of the staff on my recruitment day.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would they be and why?

I would love to have dinner with Rory McIlroy and Cillian Murphy. Rory because I am an avid golf lover and admire his sheer resilience and determination to constantly strive for more. Cillian is one of my favourite actors in some of my favourite series’ and movies – I like how he holds himself and is mysterious yet knowledgeable.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was a kid, I always dreamed of being a footballer. However, that dream was cut short at 18 when I was released. I’ve always wanted to be in business, wearing a nice suit and making plenty of money, so I just turned my focus to that since 18.

Tell us something nobody would know about you.

Something not many people would know about me is I can play the piano and absolutely love music.

BYRON WEEKS

What attracted you to the K3 Group?

I have always found sales interesting and a key life skill. I couldn’t think of a better company to teach me that skill.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would they be and why?

Elon Musk and David Goggins (American ultra-endurance athlete and motivational speaker).

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Football player.

Tell us something that no-one would know about you.

I am part-Mauritian.