Salford resident secures dream role in procurement thanks to council-led employment support

Lawrence Okafor, who had previously struggled to break into procurement despite holding a relevant degree, approached Salford Employment Hub after seeing the positive impact it had on his wife’s employment journey. With his mental health affected by his current role, Lawrence was determined to make a change.

Working closely with his adviser, Lawrence received tailored support, including CV and application reviews, labour market insights, and interview preparation. This culminated in his attendance at a ‘discovery day’ in May at Bupa Place, Bupa’s office in Salford Quays.

The visit gave Lawrence ‘behind-the-scenes’ access to Bupa, direct interaction with staff, and a streamlined recruitment process. Lawrence impressed Bupa’s recruitment team with his professionalism and clarity of career goals, and was offered a role in procurement, marking the start of a new chapter in his career.

The discovery day was part of a wider collaboration between Salford City Council and Bupa, which aims to remove barriers to employment and raise awareness of career pathways at Bupa. Three attendees, including Lawrence, have now secured roles as a direct result of the event.

Lawrence said: “Everyone from Salford Employment Hub has been truly supportive towards me on my journey. I have a lot of respect for Salford City Council and am grateful this service is available in the community. I wish to one day return the support the local authority has given me to others who are in the situation I was in, and contribute to the local community.”

Feedback from the day is now shaping a tailored pre-employment programme focused on call centre skills, digital competency, and customer service, ensuring more residents are equipped to succeed in future recruitment rounds.

Lucy Johnson, Customer Contact Enabling Lead at Bupa, said:

We had a brilliant time hosting the discovery day with Salford City Council at Bupa Place. It was a great chance to connect with local residents, showcase the varied career and progression opportunities here at Bupa, and highlight how their skills and experience could be a perfect fit. We loved giving residents a glimpse into life at Bupa and sharing how our people help deliver a world-class customer experience.” 

This initiative has been integral to the in-work progression service, a new programme delivered across Greater Manchester through local councils and employment partners. The service offers free, personalised support to help residents in low-paid or insecure jobs build confidence, boost skills, and access better-quality employment. It supports Greater Manchester’s Live Well mission to tackle inequalities through joined-up, community-based support.

Councillor Teresa Pepper, Lead Member for Skills, Work and Business Support at Salford City Council, said:

Lawrence’s story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when we work together to remove barriers and create real opportunities for our residents.

Salford Employment Hub continues to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and we’re proud to support the in-work progression service that helps lead our residents to brighter futures.”

Residents interested in accessing support can contact Salford Employment Hub at employment.hub@salford.gov.uk.or visit the Salford Skills and Work website for more information.