Help to Grow - Meet our business leaders
Claire Parker
Director of Scissett DIY
Hi, my name is Claire Parker, and I am the Director of Scissett DIY and Help to Grow alumni.
At Huddersfield Business School, we have a diverse array of programmes available; all designed to enhance business growth and develop the skills of individuals within the organisation.
Tailored to cater to the needs of business leaders of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), our Help to Grow Management programme is ideal for those aiming to elevate their business growth, strengthen resilience, and ensure sustained advancement. The comprehensive 12-week programme delves into a spectrum of modules including strategy and innovation, building a brand, efficient operations, winning new markets and internationalisation, and much more.
In this blog, we speak with Claire Parker, Director of Scissett DIY and Help to Grow alumni. Claire discusses how she has already begun implementing changes inspired by the programme, highlighting one module in particular that prompted her to step back and rethink her approach to running the business, ensuring its future ready.
Why did you choose to take part in the Help to Grow programme?
I first heard about the Help to Grow Management programme at the Huddersfield Giants Women in Business event where I met with the Help to Grow team and learned about the programme. At that point, I was hesitant about committing to anything additional, as I already had a lot on my plate. However, the subject matter and the challenges they were addressing really resonated with me. I realised that the programme could be beneficial for my business, so I decided to put my name forward. As the start of the course drew nearer I almost pulled out due to time constraints, but I’m glad I didn’t.
As a small business owner, I've had to take on many different roles, unlike in a large corporate environment where responsibilities are more clearly defined. The Help to Grow programme seemed like a great way to separate and manage these different areas, ensuring that I was handling each aspect of my business in the right way. That's why I chose to participate.
Out of the 12 modules, which one do you think was the most beneficial for you and the business?
The most beneficial module for me and my business was the one focused on organisational structure. It wasn’t that the concepts were entirely new, but the module encouraged me to take a step back and rethink how we’re running the business to ensure it's fit for the future.
Often, we get so caught up in managing the day-to-day operations that we don’t have the time to plan for growth or consider how to move to the next level. This module really helped me refocus on forward-thinking and strategic planning. I also absolutely loved the Balanced Scorecard module—maybe it’s a bit geeky, but I found it so practical and useful that I regularly revisit it. The content from this module has had a lasting impact on how I manage and plan for my business.
Claire Parker with fellow Help to Grow Cohort 7 learners on campus.
Considering your learnings from the programme, how will you take these into the business and improve any ways of working or any processes?
We've already started implementing changes based on what I learned from the programme. One of the first actions we took was to hold a customer marketing listening group. We dedicated a day to this, inviting customers and team members to provide feedback on how we could improve and better understand what our customers want. This idea was directly inspired by the course.
Additionally, we've revisited all our main processes, including how we handle purchasing, and we've delved deeper into cash flow management. We're also restructuring our management side, which is something we wouldn't have considered before the course. The aim is for me to step back from the day-to-day operations so I can focus more on implementing strategic changes. These adjustments are all about ensuring the business is more efficient and future-ready.
Scissett Home and DIY Store.What would you say to business leaders who are thinking of joining the programme?
There's really nothing to lose and a lot to gain by joining the programme. It's a well-structured course with a great team, and the tutors and participants all bring valuable insights. The networking aspect, which isn't something I usually enjoy, turned out to be a fantastic experience because everyone is in the same boat. I've made some great contacts and learned things I didn’t expect to.
The programme has given us a real boost, helping to propel our business forward. Even though I was initially reluctant to commit more time, it went by quickly, and I actually miss it now. I've stayed in touch with several local businesses I met through the programme, and we're planning to reconnect after the summer. I’ve even signed up for the Senior Leader Level 7 Apprenticeship and know a few others who are doing the same. So, take that little bit of time—it's definitely worth it!
Claire Parker at the final Help to Grow session for Cohort 7.The programme has given us a real boost, helping to propel our business forward. Even though I was initially reluctant to commit more time, it went by quickly, and I actually miss it now.
To hear how leaders of small and medium-sized businesses across Calderdale, Kirklees and Huddersfield are achieving results through the Help to Grow Management programme at University of Huddersfield visit: https://www.hud.ac.uk/helptogrow/casestudies/