Law firms have been singled out to receive up to £300,000 each in government funds to boost management skills, which ‘lag behind’ those of their international competitors.  

A total of £4m will be available to businesses in the legal, construction, financial and manufacturing sectors through non-departmental public body the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES), as part of an ongoing government-backed programme to address skills gaps.

Nigel Whitehead (pictured), group managing director of BAE Systems and a commissioner at UKCES, said: ‘While the UK’s best companies may be world-leading, the sad truth is that, generally, management capability in the UK’s law firms isn’t as good as many other countries, particularly the US.’

He said the body’s research reveals that the UK lags behind its international competitors in management skills. ‘It matters even more in the legal sector because it’s such important part of our economy. Good management practices boost productivity, staff engagement and ultimately drive economic growth.’

The competition is open to organisations in the legal, manufacturing, construction and financial sectors. Firms will have to match the funding with co-investment.

All proposals must be led and partially funded by major businesses, which will:

  • Raise the capability of leaders and managers to align skills, job design and other workplace practices;
  • Boost demand for good leadership and management skills;
  • Increase the opportunities for managers to interact with one another and learn from their peers.

The scheme is part of the UKCES Futures Programme, which targets specific workforce development problems.

The deadline for submitting applications is noon on Wednesday 30 July. Application forms and guidance on how to apply are available on the UKCES website.