Aycliffe based apprenticeship and commercial training provider NC Group has announced the appointment of Julie Knight, who joins the business as a fractional HR Leader at the board level. Her appointment follows NC Group’s recent celebration of being awarded an Ofsted Outstanding rating, achieved at its first full inspection.
Julie joins NC Group after a 24-year career at SK Chilled Foods Limited, where she was HR Director. Now operating as an independent HR consultant, she will lead the development and implementation of a people-focused HR strategy at NC Group. Designed to attract, retain, and develop talent, the strategy will also embed best practices, safeguard legal compliance, and align HR strategies with operational excellence and long-term sustainable growth.
Her appointment marks a significant step in further strengthening NC Group’s leadership, bringing a people-first perspective at the board level.
“We are fortunate to have someone of Julie’s HR experience join the business at the board level. The appointment reflects our commitment to placing people at the centre of our business strategy,” said Ian Nelson, NC Group Joint CEO. “As we continue to grow, her insight and guidance will be key in continuing to shape an inclusive, high-performing culture aligned with our values.”
Julie joins the business at an exciting stage of growth, with NC Group now employing 28 team members, including six part-time or fractional specialists.
Commenting on her appointment, Julie said: “I’m delighted to join NC Group, having worked with the business for many years in my role at SK Chilled Foods Limited. The team has a clear vision for growth, and I’m looking forward to supporting that by implementing a strong, sustainable people strategy that nurtures talent and drives a positive culture across the business.”
NC Group is an Ofsted Outstanding-rated provider of apprenticeships, commercial courses and pre-employment training, collaborating primarily with businesses in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Partnering with employers, the team supports learners in achieving record-high grades and helps close skill gaps, meet compliance, and realise value-driven impact for its customers.
To learn more about NC Group, call 01388 737121, email training@ncgroupltd.co.uk, or visit https://ncgroupltd.co.uk/.