Compass Group undertakes blockbuster human resources exercise

Compass Group yesterday conducted it's most ambitious ever human resources exercise.

The world's largest caterer briefed the majority of its 70,000 UK and Ireland employees at 7,000 sites about current trading, the company itself and where the senior management team are taking the business.

Referred to as "one Compass moment" the exercise was designed to unite employees at a company operating in sectors as wide-ranging as schools, business and industry, hospitals and on off-shore drilling platforms, to provide a common purpose and goals.

Taking time out between site visits, UK and Ireland boss Ian El-Mokadem told Caterersearch: "The event is about building momentum and making our employees feel part of that. Many people join a specific part of the business and aren't aware of the scale and breadth in depth of what we do as a company."

He added: "Today has been about showing our employees they can build their careers with us, which in such a competitive labour market that's hugely important."

Due to shift patterns and the remote locations some of Compass's work takes place in not all employees could be briefed yesterday, but EL-Mokadem estimated around 80% would be reached.

Ahead of yesterday Compass employees were sent a DVD entitled 1,3,5, which stands for one Compass, three goals, five values. The DVD showcased the scale and diversity of the Compass operation.

If feedback proves positive El-Mokadem said the company would consider making the day an annual event.

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By Chris Druce

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