Kickstart Scheme in Facilities Management: Pioneer FM Launches Trainee Programme
Pioneer FM has launched a Kickstart scheme in facilities management, introducing a pilot programme for Trainee Area Managers across the UK.
The initiative follows CEO Mary-Jane Pettit’s recent comments on the importance of attracting new talent into the cleaning and facilities management industry.
What Is the Kickstart Scheme?
The Government’s Kickstart Scheme forms part of the UK’s wider Plan for Jobs, alongside apprenticeships, T Levels, and traineeships.
It provides six-month placements for young people aged 16–24 who are claiming Universal Credit and are at risk of long-term unemployment.
For employers, the scheme offers:
- 100% of National Minimum Wage (or National Living Wage) for 25 hours per week
- Employer National Insurance contributions
- Pension contributions
- A £1,500 grant per placement for setup and training
Pioneer FM’s Approach to the Kickstart Scheme
Pioneer FM’s Kickstart programme launched with 10 placements across the UK, designed to develop future leaders within the business.
Participants gain hands-on experience across key areas of facilities management, including:
- Health and safety
- Security screening
- Recruitment and HR
- Quality management
- Social value and responsibility
- Business development
This structured approach ensures trainees build a strong foundation in the cleaning and FM industry.
Creating Long-Term Career Opportunities
The programme runs for six months, with the aim of transitioning successful trainees into permanent roles within Pioneer FM.
This reflects the company’s long-term commitment to developing talent and addressing skills shortages in the sector.
A People-First Culture
Since its inception, Pioneer FM has prioritised its people.
The company is committed to:
- Paying the Real Living Wage across all roles
- Ensuring Kickstart participants are also paid the Real Living Wage, going beyond minimum requirements
- Providing ongoing training and development
- Supporting employee wellbeing and safety
- Delivering strong engagement and reward programmes
This people-first approach is central to attracting and retaining talent in facilities management.
By paying Kickstart participants the Real Living Wage, Pioneer FM reinforces its commitment to fairness, quality, and raising standards across the cleaning industry.
CEO Perspective
Pioneer FM CEO Mary-Jane Pettit said:
“I am beyond delighted that Pioneer FM has secured a Kickstart grant. When I started Pioneer FM, I wanted to drive positive change for the lives of our people across the industry.
The Kickstart scheme allows us to go further by giving young people valuable experience in facilities management. I am also hoping to identify future talent who can grow with the business long term.”
Building the Future of Facilities Management
Programmes like Kickstart play a vital role in tackling recruitment challenges and building the next generation of facilities management professionals.
By investing in people early, Pioneer FM is helping shape a stronger, more sustainable future for the industry.