Executive training projects have become a priority for firms fighting their way out of recession, according to a leading figure in Midlands sales and management coaching.

Sue Yates, with 20 years in the recruitment industry behind her as well as 25 years in training for Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry, is director of Solihull-based Whiteley Scott and says that although the financial downturn is still a major concern, businesses are recognising that now is not the time to ditch staff training especially at executive level.

"Companies are aware that they need to be fully equipped at executive level when the upturn comes because the competition will be even more fierce as businesses battle it out for bigger slices of the cake", said Sue, vice-president of Solihull Chamber of Commerce.

"We have seen a significant increase in firms ensuring that their staff at executive level are developed to achieve specific goals and visions".

Whiteley Scott uses neuro-linguistic programming as one of its tools to enhance individual and team performance by increasing motivation, focus and drive.

"NLP has been used successfully throughout the world to improve business communication, management training and sales, and trains the brain to think through company issues in a different way".

Sue, who owned her own recruitment business for 12 years before moving fully into training primarily in the SME marketplace, said the training helps people cope with busy lifestyles and build confidence bringing clarity to day-to-day work patterns.

On top of her training commitments, Sue is chair of the Solihull Town Centre pre-BID project and co-ordinator of the Warwick and District Ryder Cheshire Volunteers charity which helps people with physical disabilities with leisure and learning activities.

"My own lifestyle reflects the work we do with companies. I have to set goals and use leadership and team management skills to ensure that I put everything into all the various strands of my busy days", she said.