On the 26th of May, a cross section of participants across all projects within Leicestershire Cares had the privilege of visiting Time Products. This tour was organised by the Youth Justice Team in collaboration with Issie Robinson, Trade Marketing Executive at Time Products. The tour was attended by 7 participants comprising of 1 female and 6 males alongside two members of staff from Leicestershire Cares.
The tour commenced with an introduction by the Chief Executive, Pete Ogley who explained the history of Time Products and shared information about the founder. The Chief Executive shared that he was drawn to Time Products as he sensed that the board were both genuine and passionate about their products. He also advised that Time Products focusses on looking after its staff which has led to some members of staff being employed by Time Products for many years. This statement was echoed by Amanda Coombes, Head of HR who confirmed that Time Products invests in their staff.
Issie Robinson, led the group to meet Gus, the Head of Product Development. He advised that he commenced his career at Time Products as an apprentice watch maker, and although he did not attend university, his willingness to learn and try new things led him into various departments until he rose to director level. Gus confirmed that he has been employed by Time Products for 44 years and as part of his job role, he is provided with the opportunity to travel both nationally and internationally. Gus invited participants to examine the various watches and asked them to choose their favourite watch. He stated that Time Products has a watch for everyone which is both reliable and affordable.
Participants were then shown the history board of those who had pioneered Time Products over the years. They were able to closely examine the new display design which is used at airports and on boards ships. Issie Robinson advised that as part of her role, she travels to different locations internationally to provide training to members of staff on how to position and market Time Products watches. The morning session ended with lunch and participants sat in the cafeteria area enjoying their lunch and reflecting on the day.
It was amazing
Participant
We were delighted to host Leicestershire Cares for a work tour and thoroughly enjoyed welcoming such an enthusiastic and engaged group. It was a pleasure to share insights into our daily operations, team roles, and the impact of our work. We hope the visit provided a rewarding and inspiring experience for the participants, offering valuable perspectives on career opportunities and the skills needed in today’s workplace. We look forward to future opportunities to collaborate and continue supporting initiatives that connect businesses with the local community
Issie Robinson- Trade Marketing Executive
The afternoon session continued with a visit to the customer service department and finance department where we met team members who had been employed for 44 and 40 years respectively. They also confirmed that Time Products is like a family, and is indeed a good place to work.
Our participants were subsequently shown the watch making section were thousands of batteries are placed in watches on a daily basis. One of the of employees, Jo confirmed that he has been employed for 49 years by Time Products and his colleague advised that he likes repairing watches that holds sentimental value to customers.
I had a good time learning about new things about the company that makes watches. I really enjoyed the photography where I was able to take a picture of the watch. I am not sure what can be improved
Participant
The day was really informative and you can learn so much from having a factory tour.
Participant
In the quality control department, insight was provided into the necessary steps taken to ensure that the watches released into the market are durable and of a high quality. Details such as checking that the straps were made according to specifications, a drop test to ensure that the glass on the watch is durable, and a water test to ensure that watches can also withstand a measure of liquid are some of the steps undertaken in the quality control department.
It was also heartwarming to see that in the warehouse, staff were provided with tables and comfortable chairs where they could sit down, pack the watches according to specifications whilst also interacting with colleagues in a very conducive environment. Participants also visited the media department where they were able to take turns at capturing photographs of watches.
It was good, we learnt about watches and the making of them.
Participant
The entire tour was insightful, and it highlighted the importance of investing in people first and foremost. Loyalty often breeds loyalty and the staff at Time Products remain loyal to their employer and brand because they are very well looked after. Participants found it to be a very interesting and eye-opening experience.
Chikodi Lori- Youth Justice Development Manager
We would like to extend our gratitude to Issie Robinson, Pete Ogley, Amanda Coombes, and all the staff at Time Products for making this tour a very insightful experience.
If you are a business and would like to support our Youth Justice participants by offering mock interviews or other work-related experiences, please get in touch by using the email below. Your time could make a lasting impact.
Youth Justice Project Development Manager
Chikodi Lori
chikodi@leicestershirecares.co.uk
To read about our Power to Change approach, click on the link below:
https://www.leicestershirecares.co.uk/about-charity/our-approach/power-to-change/#:~:text=We%20believe%20our%20power%20to,city%20and%20county%20for%20all.
For more information and insight into our Youth Justice Projects click the links below:
YOUTH JUSTICE MOCK INTERVIEW SESSION | Leicestershire Cares
All Things Youth Justice Podcast: Mindset, Making Mistakes & Moving Forward | Leicestershire Cares
Man Cave Participants Dive into Finance and Business Strategy | Leicestershire Cares
Man Cave Session: Business Ideas, Marketing, and Branding | Leicestershire Cares