Global RMX Concrete Management Programme enters fourth year

In 2021, Holcim approached the University of Derby to create a course that would apply academic theory in the context of its business, covering marketing, operations management, finance and strategy. Known as Global RMX (Ready Mix) Concrete Management, it has been developed with a collaborative approach in mind, responding to the needs of the business and allowing participants to use knowledge gained in a real-world setting.

Now entering its fourth year, the credited one-year course reaches Holcim's managers from all over the world and covers commercial, operations and finance. Residentials take place in Lyon (France), Mexico and at the University of Derby. During these residentials, participants visit sites to see how the theory they have learned can be applied practically. They will also hear from speakers and take part in discussions – all of which is delivered by those who have practical knowledge of the field.

Throughout the week-long residential, participants will cover a 20-credit module before completing workplace-related assessments, with the support of the teaching team. Upon completing the programme, participants will achieve a postgraduate qualification in management.

Simon Smith, senior lecturer and programme leader at the University of Derby said: "Working closely with Holcim in the design stages of the programme enabled us to develop a detailed understanding of the organisational needs and design a programme that is proving valuable and impactful to both the participants and the organisation. 

"The collaborative approach to the programme design has continued throughout the programme delivery, in particular application of the taught subjects to current and potential future contexts of the business."

Noureddine Djidi, global market intelligence & business development at Holcim, added: "The Global RMX Managers’ Course is the backbone of our Build Beyond Strategy. It plays a central role in preparing the future leaders of the Concrete Business in Holcim by developing their in-depth knowledge of the business and strengthening their critical and strategic thinking as well as their leadership and managerial skills. 

"By working with the University of Derby, we have the best of both worlds. In fact, the programme perfectly combines the theory, structure and scientific rigour of academia with the hands-on and practical nature of the industry. Since the launch of the programme in 2021, we have developed a strong pipeline of talented leaders capable of coping with the new challenges our industry is facing to take the Concrete Business in Holcim to next level in terms of performance and sustainability."