Case Studies

Client Overview

Mylands is a family-owned paint manufacturer based in London, known for its high-quality, handcrafted paints and finishes. With a heritage spanning over 135 years, the business combines tradition with innovation, maintaining a strong commitment to craftsmanship and excellence.

Challenge

As part of a broader succession planning initiative, Mylands’ Manufacturing Manager identified the need to develop leadership capability within the factory team. With long-term growth and operational continuity in mind, he aimed to upskill two high-potential factory operatives to prepare them for future team leadership roles.

However, this development needed to take place without causing disruption to the company’s tight production schedules. The challenge was to deliver meaningful leadership training that was both time-efficient and tailored to the practical realities of a busy manufacturing environment.

Solution

Rostrup designed and delivered a focused, two-day in-person training programme, tailored specifically to the needs of the two aspiring team leaders. The content was developed in close collaboration with the Manufacturing Manager to ensure it was relevant, accessible, and aligned with the day-to-day challenges faced in the factory.

The training was highly interactive and experiential, focusing on the foundations of effective supervision. Key topics included:

• Understanding the transition from peer to leader
• Communicating clearly and assertively
• Delegating tasks and managing time effectively
• Motivating and supporting team members
• Problem-solving on the factory floor
• Giving feedback and managing conflict constructively

The small group setting allowed for individual coaching, discussion, and real-time practice, giving both participants the opportunity to build confidence in a supportive environment.

Outcome

The programme was delivered successfully with zero disruption to production operations. Within four months of completing the training, both participants had stepped into team-leading responsibilities, supporting the Manufacturing Manager and guiding small groups within the factory.

This outcome not only demonstrated the immediate effectiveness of the training but also showcased clear career progression opportunities within the manufacturing team. Their advancement helped to reinforce a culture of development and internal promotion.

Furthermore, the presence of trained team leaders enabled new production processes to be introduced more efficiently, contributing to improved operational performance and enhanced team collaboration.

Through a targeted, practical training programme, Mylands successfully prepared two operatives for leadership — supporting succession planning and driving cultural growth on the factory floor. The initiative demonstrated how even small-scale leadership development can have a powerful and lasting impact in a manufacturing environment.