The final day of The Recruit was bursting with determination, excitement and passion as the five groups (DOXA, Innovation, Stimulus, Supernova and Triumph-al-) competed to succeed at their final challenges.
The competition followed the model of the hugely successful The Apprentice and witnessed the groups stretching their skills and knowledge as they each created a new biscuit for Lanark-based company Border Biscuits.
Teamwork, excellent communication skills, leadership and creativity were in abundance as they worked together on this demanding challenge.
Their presentations - before the judging panel of Stephen Beer, Andrew Craig and Stevie Kidd – were fit to meet the rigours of a Sugar or Trump boardroom but only two could be chosen from the five onto the next stage.
After much debate it was decided that DOXA and Innovation were to be chosen for the final stage.
The final two groups made some very robust arguments before the judging panel as the other candidates watched nervously via video link in the next room.
The judging panel finally decided to accept both DOXA, with their innovative health biscuit, and Innovation, who produced a Fruitini dipping biscuit with new packaging, were both worthy winners.
One judge commented "I found it a very satisfying experience to see so much creativity, determination and organisation from a group of talented young people".
Although the competition has now ended the learning process continues. MD Stevie Kidd has arranged one to one meetings with a number of the candidates.
Our thanks go to Border Biscuits, Renfrewshire Council and the judges. However, our biggest admiration goes to the inspirational candidates. Their energy and creativity was tangible throughout the competition.
They are all outstanding prospects and we will follow and support their life journeys as they move forward.
Overall, the competition was a resounding success and we look forward to more in the near future.