Leading the way for people restarting their careers

Centrica has launched HitReturn – a new pilot returners programme for professionals who've taken a career break.

Centrica’s new strategy, announced in July, set out the aim to create a 21st century energy company.

Recognising that meeting this challenge will require new kinds of skills, Centrica has launched HitReturn, a new UK programme to source senior professionals, who could make a huge contribution if given the chance.

Launched in partnership with Mars and Vodafone, this is the first ever cross-company scheme of its kind. The programme supports those who want to return to a career after time out as a parent or carer – a situation that many find very challenging.

The pilot offers 12-week paid ‘returnships’ giving people returning to work the opportunity to work on professional assignments and get expert coaching from Women Returners, an organisation which specialises in enabling the return to work of professionals after an extended career break.

The opportunities, in areas such as marketing, digital and operations, are based in the head offices of the three companies in the Thames Valley area. Applicants are expected to have taken a career break for at least two years to be eligible.

Arslan Sharif, British Gas Digital Director and supporter of HitReturn, said: "The programme gives us a fantastic opportunity to empower talented professionals looking to restart their careers with a route back into work.

"I'm very excited about the potential of this programme, as well as the diverse range of applicants and capability that we may source in the process. This is an innovative way to support both our business and customer needs."

 To find out more visit the HitReturn website.