Operations Manager Wins UWS Graduate Apprentice of the Year 2026
We are delighted to share that Ian Allan, Operations Manager at Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC), has been named Graduate Apprentice of the Year 2026 (Business Management) by the University of the West of Scotland.
The award was announced during Scottish Apprenticeship Week at UWS’ Paisley campus, where Ian attended the ceremony alongside his workplace mentor, Robert Lappin, Assistant Director of SBMC.
A wealth of experience brought into social enterprise
Ian joined SBMC in September 2020, bringing with him more than 40 years of experience in the print and signage industry, including time spent working within social enterprises. He joined at a pivotal moment, as SBMC emerged from the pandemic and demand for large-scale road signage accelerated and he quickly became a valued member of the team.
Before joining SBMC, Ian worked at Leeds City Council’s Signs, Print and Mail Factory, where he developed deep technical expertise that he now applies daily in support of our mission.
A personal ambition, supported by RBVE
Undertaking the Graduate Apprenticeship was Ian’s own long-held ambition. When SBMC invited UWS’ Graduate Apprentice Lead to visit the factory, Ian followed up on the opportunity and began the programme shortly afterwards.
Royal British Veterans Enterprise supported Ian throughout his studies, including paid time off to attend university days, while the remainder of the programme was completed in Ian’s own time.
Academic excellence with real-world impact
Ian’s dissertation, The Cultural Ramifications of Change, explores themes highly relevant to RBVE and the wider social enterprise sector. His work will directly benefit the organisation as we continue to evolve and strengthen our impact.
In recognition of his academic performance, Ian has also been invited to deliver a guest lecture at UWS, an exceptional achievement for an undergraduate and a testament to the esteem in which he is held by the University.
A well-deserved honour
Speaking about Ian’s achievement, Colin Harsant, Managing Director of Social Enterprise, said:
“Ian’s dedication and commitment to lifelong learning are an inspiration to all of us. He has balanced full-time work with demanding academic study and excelled in both. We are incredibly proud of him and delighted to see his hard work recognised.”
Robert added:
“Ian brings enormous experience, professionalism, and heart to SBMC. Supporting him through this apprenticeship has been a privilege, and this award is richly deserved. The whole team is proud of him.”