Fast-growing Hull technology company Connexin has acquired an East Yorkshire training provider.
The undisclosed deal for Encompass Training follows a run of broadband business acquisitions in the city as the company has significantly expanded its presence following a huge equity injection.
Encompass will be merged with Connexin Academy, launched in 2021, with the aim of boosting digital skills and enhancing employability in the community. It brings a strong track record in senior management development to the company. A total of 30 staff will join the team, accelerating employment opportunities for more than 600 learners each year.
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Founded in 2009, and led by managing director Lisa Blakey and director of commercial operations Adam Rhodes, Encompass is a centre of excellence with The Leadership Pipeline Institute, which has emerged as an influential model in recent years. Having latterly operated from office space in Melton, it has supported several blue chip companies including Wren Kitchens, Stonegate Group, Eurocell and Diageo in selecting and developing staff across all levels.
Heidi Greaves, managing director of Connexin Academy, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Encompass and its brilliant team will become part of the Connexin family. Encompass is a fantastic business and one that has received a number of great accolades. Connexin Academy shares the same values as Encompass for transforming lives through learning. This alignment in ethos and culture will bring huge benefits, not just to learners, but to employers across the region.
“Through this acquisition, we’re able to expand our offering with a range of extra courses, bootcamps and apprenticeships. We are thrilled to further cement our position as a leading digital skills and training provider.”
Connexin has recently taken on a new head office at K3 Business Park on Clough Road, with the academy growth part of the reasoning for the move. The merged entity will operate from the refurbished Henry Boot Way property.
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Alongside leadership and management development, Encompass has provided accountancy, business and procurement training to thousands of learners. Ms Blakey is taking the opportunity presented by the deal to move on from the business, with Mr Rhodes to support Ms Graves.
He said: “We are immensely proud of our achievements so far, in training thousands of learners and working with some of the biggest companies in the region. Encompass and Connexin share their roots in the city of Hull and our equally strong commitment in upskilling the country’s workforce.
“Digital skills are absolutely vital in today’s economy and keep our businesses thriving. Uniting with the Connexin Academy is the next big step of many more to come.”