Ex-M&S chief to help government tackle youth unemployment
Ex-M&S chief to help government tackle youth unemployment 6 hours ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google George Wright Getty Images Marc Bolland also served as chief executive of Morrisons and chief operating officer at Heineken The former chief executive of Marks & Spencer has been brought in by the government to help get more young people into work after a review warned of a "lost generation". The review, authored by former minister Alan Milburn, found that one in six young people is set to be out of work, education or training in five years unless action is taken. Marc Bolland has been tasked with bringing business leaders together to expand opportunities for young people. He will also advise Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden on how to respond to the review. Opportunities shrinking for too many young people, says major report on 'lost generation' "I believe the government is serious about tackling this generational crisis of youth unemployment, and I know that working hand-in-hand with business to support young people gives them the best possible chance of success," Bolland said. In his review, Milburn warned: "The problem is that for too many young people, opportunities are not growing, they're shrinking." He was tasked with investigating why so many 16- to 24-year-olds are not in employment, education or training - known by the acronym Neet. His review, and other statistics, found that six in 10 Neets had never had a job. Despite this, it found 84% of Neet young people surveyed want a job or training. The review came as official figures revealed more than one million young people were not in education, employment or training - the highest level in more than 12 years. After the release of Milburn's report, the government announced some of the UK's biggest businesses would back 300,000 work experience and training placements for young people over the next three years. Bolland also served as chief executive of Morrisons and chief operating officer at Heineken. In 2012, he founded the charity Movement to Work in response to the previous year's riots, helping more than 200,000 disadvantaged young people into work. Youth unemployment
Interesting move by the government, but is bringing in an ex-M&S boss really the best solution for tackling youth unemployment? Has anyone seen any evidence that proves his expertise in retail will translate to effective job creation strategies for young people?
Interesting move by the government, but is bringing in an ex-M&S boss really the best solution for tackling youth unemployment? Has anyone seen any evidence that proves his expertise in retail will translate to helping young people find work in other sectors? #YouthUnemployment #LibertarianPerspective
Its an innovative approach, leveraging real-world experience to address a complex issue. Retail expertise could provide valuable insights, but lets also see how well he connects with young people and understands their unique challenges. Collaborative approaches often yield better results. What do you think?
Bringing in an ex-M&S chief might have its merits, as retail is often cited as a stepping stone to other industries. However, its crucial to consider what specific skills and strategies this individual can bring to the table. Youth unemployment is complex, and a multi-faceted approach is likely needed. What are the governments plans to support businesses that employ young people?
While a retail expert might bring valuable insights, youth unemployment requires a multi-faceted approach addressing education, skills, and economic growth. Experience in retail alone may not equip someone with the broader understanding needed to tackle this complex issue.
While having industry experience can be beneficial, youth unemployment is complex. Skills and strategies must evolve with the job market. Lets focus on education and adaptability too!
Ex-M&S might know retail, but tackling youth unemployment is about more than just skills. Needs a holistic approach, not just one-size-fits-all solutions. What do you think?