Callum had no idea about the leather industry when he applied for a job with the Scottish Leather Group - his only insight had been gained from his mother who had once lived near a tannery! - or that a local company that he had never heard of, was so involved with some of the biggest brands in the world. He was surprised at the complexity of the process and did not expect to find PhDs working in the industry or the many opportunities in science and technology that were available. However, he saw a role with plenty of scope for growth and now plans to stay with the company.

In his role as Group Human Resources Business Partner, he is responsible for the development of the group’s employees, managing their transition from apprentices and leather workers, through supervisory roles and on to management. This includes managing the succession plan for the senior staff at the group. He also helps to develop the employer-employee relationship to ensure that employees are treated fairly and consistently. This includes coaching managers on employment law and ensuring that any tribunals are dealt with properly. This is a broader remit that his previous roles, and he is often involved with the senior management. He finds the role more fulfilling than previous roles and enjoys the feeling that his opinion is listened to  and valued.

He has completed his chartered certification with the company, who are now also funding his master’s degree. He believes that the industry offers a career for life with opportunities to learn a wide range of skills, that would be of benefit in any manufacturing environment, and to work in other parts of the world. He is very proud of his role and the industry, saying it is great to be involved with a company that works with a tangible product and actually makes something.