NEWS

iqms Learning engaged with the Sunderland Supply Chain programme, delivered by RTC North, to strengthen its market presence, build commercial resilience, and explore opportunities beyond its core markets.

Through tailored support, the business was able to access new networks, gain insight into supply chain expectations, and take practical steps towards diversification. 

iqms Learning provides management systems and auditor training, alongside consultancy services covering Quality, Health & Safety, Environment, Automotive, Food Safety, and Information Security in the UK and overseas. The business joined the programme to broaden its reach, reduce reliance on a narrow customer base, and identify opportunities in adjacent sectors. 

Like many specialist SMEs, iqms Learning faced the risks of market concentration and had limited exposure to adjacent and emerging sectors. The business needed to raise its profile, better understand supply chain expectations in new markets, and identify practical routes to diversification to safeguard roles and strengthen sustainability. 

Through tailored engagement, iqms Learning was supported to participate in a series of regional and sector-led events designed to raise visibility, build relationships, and strengthen market intelligence. Support was also provided the North East Regional Defence and Security Cluster (NERDSC) network, helping the business assess where its learning and skills offer could add value in new sectors and supply chains. This included knowledge-sharing activity and involvement in accreditation-focused workshops. 

As a result of this engagement, iqms Learning strengthened its external profile, expanded its professional network, and gained clearer insight into expectations across adjacent and emerging markets. This increased confidence in its diversification plans, reduced over-dependence on a limited pipeline, and supported a more resilient approach to future growth. 

Lesley Hawke, Sunderland Supply Chain Project Manager, commented: 

“iqms Learning has approached the programme with real openness and ambition. In addition to strengthening their own visibility and resilience through sector engagement, the business has been key in adding knowledge and practical insight to a number of sector‑based workshops, particularly those focused on accreditations and certifications.

Their contribution has supported peer businesses to better understand standards requirements while iqms Learning continues to build a more diversified and sustainable pipeline for future growth.” 

iqms Managing Director, Steve Nicholas, said; 

“RTC North have been an invaluable partner in our growth journey.

Through both the Sunderland Supply Chain initiative and the NERDSC programme, their commitment to supporting our development has been exceptional. Lesley and her team demonstrate a clear focus on driving regional progress, and being part of their network plays an important role in supporting our long-term success.” 

Future support is expected to focus on continued market diversification, deeper engagement with defence, security, and adjacent sectors through NERDSC, and ongoing activity around standards, accreditations, and supply chain readiness. Iqms Learning’s expertise has also been leveraged to support peer businesses through ISO gap analysis activity and accreditation-focused workshops, reinforcing its role within the wider regional support ecosystem. 

RTC North is a Certified B Corporation and employee‑owned organisation, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to using business as a force for good. This people‑first model ensures the organisation is governed in line with its purpose, values, and regional mission, with ownership held on behalf of its employees and a strong focus on long‑term impact. 

Working with a wide range of partners including local authorities, universities, and the private sector, RTC offers expert advice in areas such as business growth, digital transformation, commercialisation, skills development, and internationalisation. RTC is committed to fostering enterprise, driving innovation, and empowering businesses to achieve sustainable and inclusive success across the North of England. 

Support is fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund provides £900 million of funding for local investment in 2025/26. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit UK Shared Prosperity Fund: 2025/26 technical note - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)