Launched in June as part of PTSG’s Lean Transformation project, Wave 1 combined four full days of training with practical problem-solving and coaching. Participants learned how to look beyond the immediate symptoms of a problem, establish what is really causing it and develop improvements supported by evidence.
The programme also brought colleagues together across organisational boundaries, creating relationships and opportunities to share knowledge that will continue well beyond the training.
David Newcombe, Director of Lean Transformation, took over the programme on 17 August 2026. David has coached the cohort through its final two months, helping participants develop their thinking and strengthen their proposals.
David said: “One of the most valuable things about this programme is seeing colleagues realise how much they can contribute when they have the tools, encouragement and space to think differently. They learn new skills, but they also learn from one another, discovering expertise elsewhere in PTSG and building relationships they can draw on in the future. That combination of personal development, shared knowledge and practical application creates the conditions for lasting improvement. Wave 1 has given us some excellent ideas and a strong foundation for the colleagues who follow.”
For Lucy Burgess, Head of HR Operations and a member of the first cohort, the experience has been as much about people as processes.
Lucy said: “I’ve really enjoyed being part of the first Green Belt cohort and have found the learning genuinely useful and practical. We’ve already been putting it into practice, looking at processes differently and challenging where we can make things simpler and more effective. It’s also been a great opportunity to work with colleagues from across the business and share different perspectives and ideas and I’m looking forward to seeing the future cohorts benefit from the training and how the learning continues to be put into practice. It’s a fantastic investment in our people and one I’m really pleased to have been part of.”
PTSG’s approach draws on a well-established principle: developing people through real business challenges strengthens both their capabilities and the organisation. Global businesses including Honeywell and GE HealthCare use Lean Six Sigma learning within their wider development programmes, connecting structured improvement with career progression and leadership skills.
Within PTSG’s approach, Green Belts focus on improvements within a division or function, while Black Belts tackle more complex challenges across the Group. Greg Ward, Chief Executive Officer sees the programme as an important investment in the company’s future.
Greg said: “Tomorrow’s leaders need opportunities to exercise judgement today. They develop by asking better questions, listening to different perspectives and taking responsibility for making something work better. In a business with PTSG’s breadth of expertise, we have an enormous opportunity to learn from one another. This programme gives colleagues recognised for their contribution, curiosity and potential with the opportunity to broaden their experience and prepare for greater responsibility. Wave 1 has produced some excellent thinking. I congratulate everyone involved and look forward to seeing how our second cohort builds on that achievement.”
Wave 2 will again bring together colleagues from Group functions and all five divisions, nominated by the Senior Leadership Team. They will have the opportunity to develop their careers while working on challenges that matter to PTSG.
