Leading UK tour operator TUI Travel’s Be Special initiative helps them win the coveted Workforce Development Award for Employer of the Year 2009.

The initiative shows commitment to employees through training, empowerment, recognition and reward, and has seen an increase in retention, and sales performance plus a reduction in recruitment costs.

HR Director, Jacky Simmonds, stated that TUI Travel are extremely pleased with the results of their Be Special initiative adding that commitment to employees was already seeing positive results. TUI Travel has also trained over 3,500 apprentices within the last 5 years.

“We really believe that training people when they are starting out in their careers through our apprentice scheme, whilst providing development throughout their career makes a tangible difference to our business.” stated Simmonds.

Andy Smyth and James Miller were delighted to accept the award on behalf of TUI Travel UK and Ireland at a glittering ceremony held in London’s Park Plaza Hotel on 23 April.