Unlocking Growth: Training New Managers is essential for Fast-Growing Businesses
In the race to scale, fast-growing companies often promote high-performing individuals into management roles. These new managers may be technically brilliant, but many lack the people management skills needed to lead effectively. The result? HR individuals and teams become overstretched, firefighting issues that could be prevented with proper training.
There is a solution—and it’s one that directly impacts profitability.
The Hidden Cost of Untrained Managers
According to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), 82% of UK managers enter their roles without any formal training[1]. These “accidental managers” often struggle with basic leadership tasks, from giving feedback to managing conflict. This puts pressure on HR professionals, who must step in to guide them—diverting time from strategic priorities. Ben Willmott, Head of Public Policy at CIPD, puts it plainly: “Employers need to think very carefully about how they recruit and develop managers at all levels to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to manage people effectively.”[2]
Training Managers Boosts Performance and Profitability
A large-scale UK study by Aston University found a positive and significant relationship between training and SME performance. Notably, when managers received both on-the-job and off-the-job training, the impact on performance was even greater[3]. The CMI’s Management and UK 2030 report goes further, estimating that closing the management training gap with Germany could boost UK productivity by £76 billion - nearly one-third of the NHS England annual budget[1]. And the ROI is clear. A Deloitte study found that for every £1 invested in leadership development, UK organisations see an average return of £2.86[4].
Why Fast-Growing Companies Should Act Now
Growth brings complexity. As teams expand, the need for skilled managers becomes urgent. Without proper training, companies risk:
High turnover due to poor management
Reduced productivity from disengaged teams
Stalled innovation from lack of strategic leadership
Investing in management development helps companies scale sustainably. It builds leadership capacity, strengthens culture, and reduces reliance on HR for day-to-day coaching.
Expert Voices on the Power of Training
Here are some powerful quotes to inspire action:
John C. Maxwell: “The single biggest way to impact an organisation is to focus on leadership development.”[5]
CMI Report: “Better trained managers act as catalysts for a better-skilled workforce.”[1]
Conclusion: A Strategic Imperative for Growth
Fast-growing companies can’t afford to overlook the importance of training new managers. It’s not just about avoiding mistakes—it’s about unlocking potential. By investing in structured, evidence-based management development programmes, businesses can:
Empower managers to lead confidently
Free up HR to focus on strategic goals
Build a resilient, high-performing culture
Drive profitability and long-term success
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References
[2] www.cipd.org
[4] www.cjpi.com
[5] www.forbes.com