Merlin employs 70 staff, around one third of whom are technicians, engineers and lab-staff. Between them, the staff has around 600 years of experience in printed circuit board manufacture!

All new staff undergo a full induction program to ensure they are introduced to the industry in a professional manner. We have developed a comprehensive induction pack with full glossary so new employees can start to become familiar with the industry immediately they join us.

"At least once per year, we have a formal appraisal process"

There are monitored training programmes for new staff and the acquired skills are recorded on a published matrix. Staff are encouraged to progress within the company and become multi-skilled. The company is also keen to develop generic skills and has strong connections with Further Education Colleges in the area with whom courses are run on various aspects of IT, NEBS team leader training and general management skills.

At least once per year, we have a formal appraisal process during which staff discuss their progress and training needs for the future.

Communication is vital if staff are to be fully involved in company activities. Every year the business plan is reviewed and the major points condensed into a convenient format for all employees to retain. Cascaded communication sessions are held with all staff, when they have an opportunity to comment on the key features. The comments are reported back to the management team and all suggestions are seriously evaluated.

The aim is to ensure that everyone in the organization knows the company's objectives and how they can help to achieve these targets within their own departments.