MORE than 120 employers were in attendance at the inaugural employability event organised by the Ulster University Business School.
Held at the SSE Arena and sponsored by the Belfast Giants and the MCS Group, 600 students were present to seek information and hear about graduate career prospects and current job openings in companies throughout Northern Ireland and beyond.
Professor Marie McHugh, Dean of Ulster University Business School, explained: “As a business school we not only have a responsibility to impart theory and understanding, but we also have to equip our students with the practical skills and knowledge which makes them attractive prospects for employers.
In turn, employers need to explain and promote the opportunities within their companies.
Often students have a perception about what a company does but have no idea about the vast range of job opportunities available within that company.
This event has allowed both groups to exchange knowledge, self-promote and lay the groundwork for future employment.” Companies taking part in the event included Caterpillar NI, Citi Bank, Ernst & Young, PWC, and the Hastings Group.
The event further highlighted the school’s ongoing partnership with the business sector also evidenced by its placement scheme which sees up to 400 students placed annually.
Louise Smyth, commercial director, MCS Group Intelligent Recruitment Solutions, said: “MCS Group are delighted to partner with Ulster University Business School for this event and look forward to working with their teams over the coming years to support graduate employability and career progression.
We feel that there is always more that can be done to support our graduates, with increasing numbers of applications and ever-changing skills requirements the closer the partnerships between education, industry and public bodies, the better outcome for graduate employability.”
Mark Brooks, commercial manager for the Stena Line Belfast Giants, said: “Myself and all at the Giants are proud to have a long standing partnership with the school. Indeed we currently have six Giants players enrolled in Masters courses in sport management, business administration and management.
“As a business school alumnus, I know how highly they value their students and Tuesday’s event showcased this with 600 students and 120 employers — ensuring opportunities for employability and career advancement.”