A CENTRE Park business with a national network of offices has thrown its weight behind National Apprenticeship Week and encouraged others to unlock the 'massive potential' of a young workforce.

Professional services provider Optionis Group has employed more than 100 apprentices over the past two years across a range of departments, supporting its work to provide accounting, payroll, tax and professional employment services.

The group plans to continue building on its success in the years ahead by continuing to promote its apprenticeship scheme and invest in young talent.

Optionis Group HR manager, Daniel Burgess, said: "We've got a strong track record of employing young people through our apprenticeship scheme and we always bring people in with the intention of helping them to progress within the company.

"Apprentices that join us are always incredibly enthusiastic and have the determination to learn new skills and move up the ranks, which are exactly the kind of qualities we look for in young people.

"It's so rewarding to see them grow with us and apply their passion for work to help develop our business and they bring fantastic objectivity and contribute some great ideas.

“The majority of our workforce are in middle and senior management roles and they can be difficult to recruit for, so by bringing in apprentices in at a young age we can develop them through the business, providing a long-term benefit.

“There's no doubt in my mind that a young workforce has massive potential and can be a huge asset for any company. Over the years we've certainly seen the benefit of investing and nurturing young talent, and I think across the country there's more that can be done to promote apprenticeships and help young people get a foot on the career ladder."