The awards recognise industry professionals for commitment and dedication to developing both their professional skills and careers. It is also a chance for the EDA to celebrate those with leadership skills, who work to drive high performance in their teams.

At the event, a number of managers were recognised for leading the EDA’s Training and Apprenticeship programme within their respective businesses.

Fiona Lothian, branch manager for Rexel’s Edinburgh West branch, was one of those and received the EDA Investor in Training Awards 2019.

Ms Lothian oversees the overall management of the branch operation, and her continuous success in driving high performance led to her winning the award. Her leadership skills have been demonstrated through the apprenticeships and training schemes she ran for her team.

Ms Lothian said: “I was extremely surprised and thrilled to be nominated for this award. In my management role at Rexel I have been able to help and influence youngsters starting out in their career, which has been very rewarding. I believe investing in your team and promoting teamwork is an essential way for the team to develop, and in turn aid business growth.”

The EDA’s Learning Achievement Awards were also awarded to those with an outstanding performance in an apprenticeship, or in recognition of the individual’s product knowledge training.

Dylan Sanudo-Ellison, an apprentice warehouse operative from Deeside, was also an award winner for Rexel. He was presented with an EDA Learning Achievements Outstanding Apprentice Award.

He said: “It was a great honour to be given this award. My apprenticeship at Rexel has helped further my career considerably, and it is a great feeling that my hardwork in the role has paid off. I am eager to continue working with Rexel to develop my skills and to progress further.”

Rexel has continued to invest in its apprenticeship programme, and in late 2018 began offering apprenticeships directly through the business.