Pathway commences its 30th intake
The next generation of retail and optometry leaders have begun training this week, kicking off a milestone 30th intake of Pathway, Specsavers’ joint venture partner development program.
In the turbulence of 2020, the program converted to a virtual platform so its 30th intake modules are set to inspire and educate participants for the next five months in virtual classrooms utilising online resources and live online events.
Kimberley Forbes, Specsavers Pathway Program Lead, says offering Pathway online has enabled 30 professionals to participate in the program in this intake, and is just one example of how the program has developed over the years to remain the best in field.
“Pathway first launched in Australia and New Zealand in December 2012 and since then, we’ve seen more than 318 clinical and retail professionals graduate, more than 225 being successfully matched with a Specsavers business as store partner. On top of that, we are about to reach an exciting milestone with more than 50% of our stores being run by Pathway Graduates,” says Kimberley.
Over time, as the Specsavers environment has evolved to follow consumer demands and clinical best-practice, Pathway has also continuously evolved to ensure it adds critical business management and development skills to participants’ existing clinical, dispensing, or retail skills, enabling real-world success.
“Pathway is focussed on five key themes or modules. The first is about leading self and leading change, helping participants to identify and understand their own leadership styles and preferences. Participants then complete a module on leading others and their teams, enabling success in the management of a store team. We also educate Pathway participants on leading commercially, giving an understanding of what it takes to build and maintain a sustainable business. Lastly, we focus on leading great customer experiences and operational excellence, understanding that good customer service is key to success in any business,” says Kimberley.
Pathway’s curriculum relies on self-motivated learning but also gives opportunities to learn from others in the group. While most of the learning will be completed online, participants will be grouped according to state and will be able to network and learn from peers and mentors who live and work near them. In appreciation and support of the candidates and the further development of the program, they have had the opportunity to welcome a new member of the team. Jenny Thang, the new Pathway Program Consultant and will be focused on working alongside Kimberley to further evolve the offering on the Program.
To find out more about Pathway in a confidential discussion, contact Kimberley Forbes on +61 (0)429566846 or at kimberley.forbes@specsavers.com.
30 Pathway Intakes in Numbers:
- December 2012 – First ANZ Pathway intake
- 318 – Number of Pathway graduates
- 225 – Number of Pathway graduates who have become Specsavers store partners
- 3 – Current number of Pathway intakes per year
- 48% have a Pathway graduate as a Partner
