A human resources and development manager at James & Jenkins Garages in Cardiff has been named as a finalist in the 2009 Leading Wales Awards, which seeks to recognise and celebrate outstanding leaders.

Catherine James has been nominated for her work at the Llandaff North-based car dealership, where she has created and delivered a series of training programmes.

James has encouraged staff to organise social and team-building activities including participation in charitable events such as Race for Life.

“I wanted the staff to have an opportunity to meet each other outside their normal working environment in order for them to enter the training programmes feeling at ease with each other, and with a greater appreciation of themselves as a team,” said James.

“The courses I designed were bespoke to each department and covered subjects including post ownership, decision making, and a greater understanding of personal
responsibility.” 

James also introduced monthly employee achievement certificates and performance bonuses which include tickets to sporting events and gift vouchers. Workers now regularly recommend colleagues to receive special recognition.