As a businesses that’s intrinsically linked to our communities, we are particularly proud of our charity work and the role we play in providing valuable experiences for the next generation.
Part of that is our commitment to the High Tide Foundation, which brings together industry and education across the Tees Valley to deliver life-changing career opportunities that engage with employers, increase understanding, improve skills and raise aspirations.
Co-founded by former Casper Group Chairman Kevin Shakesheff, with MD Michael Shakesheff as Trustee, the charity initially had a focus on maritime and shipping but has since expanded to cover the breadth of world-class businesses, ground-breaking products and dedicated professional services that exist in Teesside.
Left to right: Michael Shakesheff (Casper, MD, and High Tide Foundation, Trustee) alongside Owain Brennan (High Tide Foundation, Programme Coordinator), Mark Easby (High Tide Foundation, Chair), Neil Parker (High Tide Foundation, Trustee), and Paula McMahon (High Tide Foundation, Trustee).
As one of six corporate partners alongside PD Ports, Intelect, Active, Visualsoft and Jacksons Law Firm, the relationship strengthens our values and long-term responsibility to young people in the region in which we were born. As well as providing investment to support the future of High Tide, we offer strategic insight which will allow the foundation to continue developing relevant, industry-led programmes.
Nikki Sayer, Director at Casper Shipping, said: “High Tide was established by our chairman, Kevin Shakesheff, and the former CEO of PD Ports, David Robinson, with the aim of raising the employment opportunities and aspirations of young people on Teesside.
“Initially there was a real focus on the River Tees and the shipping sector, which is often described as an ‘invisible industry’ and where recruitment remains one of our biggest challenges.”
As well as shaping the workforce of tomorrow and meeting important social responsibility commitments, there’s real value in being involved with High Tide.
Nikki added: “Working with High Tide helps give our business and our employees a real sense of purpose, and not only promotes our sector but also helps showcase the diverse and growing range of job opportunities right here in the region.
“A number of members of the team support the foundation in various ways and really enjoy taking part in programmes. We also find it’s a really enjoyable way to help the team feel involved in giving something back.”
Teesside students taking part in the High Tide Foundation’s Shipping Cadetship.
With the help of close to 150 business members, High Tide have engaged with more than 15,000 young people over the past 10 years. As well as workplace-based activities, their range of tailored virtual experiences and online career insights are helping to reach more students than ever before. These inspiring and interactive placements are open to all schools and colleges in the Tees Valley and are designed to integrate easily into a structured careers programme in-line with the national Gatsby careers framework.
Lauren Bywater, General Manager of High Tide, said: “It’s never been easier to get involved and reap the benefits for your business, at the same time as inspiring the next generation of talent, raising aspirations and showcasing the opportunities available across Teesside.
“Being part of the High Tide Foundation can be an investment in your long-term recruitment strategy, can help with your employees’ professional development and can also raise your profile within your industry and awareness of your sector to help overcome skills shortages, so there are tangible benefits for getting involved.”
To find out more about the High Tide Foundation, their range of programmes and how you can get involved, head to their website.
