Mayor's grad scheme to link graduates with SME's in Yorkshire

Businesses in West Yorkshire will be able to recruit from a talent pool of hundreds of professionally-trained graduates under a new scheme launched by regional mayor Tracy Brabin.

The Graduates West Yorkshire scheme is the first of its kind for the region, and will see up to a thousand graduates undergo rigorous employability training, to prepare them for jobs in the regional economy.

The graduates will then be matched with small and medium-sized businesses in the region, progressing on to interviews, six-month work placements and, in some cases, permanent employment.

Over 100 graduates have completed the award-winning development courses so far, which are delivered by the leading higher education careers consultancy Gradconsult.

The Mayor is now encouraging small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) to register their interest in the free graduate scheme. Firms that apply will receive wrap-around support with the recruitment and retention of a graduate that is right for their business.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “In West Yorkshire, we have seven leading universities producing thousands of talented graduates every year, alongside thousands of local businesses that are crying out for skilled workers.

“Yet the path from university to employment isn’t always clear, with young people too often feeling that they lack the real-world transferable skills they need to be an asset to a business.

“With this new grad scheme, we’ll ensure that our small and medium-sized firms can access the reliable talent they need, by equipping our graduates with the skills they need to contribute to a stronger, brighter region.”

Mandy Ridyard, business advisor to the Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "This new graduate scheme is a direct result of our conversations with businesses, who tell us they need better access to talent.

"This scheme is free to our SMEs that have a compelling entry-level offer, but who are struggling to compete with the big grad schemes of multinational companies.

"Joining the dots between our businesses and talented graduates from our universities can help drive growth, and is a great example of devolution in action."

Thu Thu, an MSc International Marketing graduate from Leeds Beckett University, said: “I joined the Graduates West Yorkshire Programme to bridge the gap between university and professional life, and contribute to the vibrant SME sector in West Yorkshire.

“The development programme has been an incredible opportunity to access new skills and network with fellow, talented graduates in the same area.

“I have recently been matched with two marketing roles, and I have also gained continuous support from the program throughout the interview processes.

“I'm excited to explore fulfilling marketing career opportunities with local businesses, hopefully secure a permanent job offer soon, and make a meaningful impact with my ideas."

The new scheme, which aims to enrol 1,000 graduates on development courses over the coming year, is designed to meet the needs of recent graduates who do not have a clear pathway into employment, but who could thrive in a local business setting.

A Geography graduate could find themselves training to become a qualified chartered surveyor at a medium-sized property company, while a graduate in Fine Art could embark on a career in graphic design at a small printing firm.

After starting their paid employment, graduates will also receive access to a peer network that can drive their professional development. Firms that take part will be asked to pay at least £23,400 FTE for their work placement opportunities.

So far, 121 graduates have received specialist training at a Gradconsult development centre, with the first cohort starting their paid placements at local firms this week.

Tejashwi Kumari, a graduate of Leeds Beckett University who has started as a Marketing Executive at Cleckheaton-based radiofrequency ID specialists HYKK Solutions, said: “Joining this graduate program has been a great opportunity, helping me secure a role as a marketing executive and identify my strengths, like being a self-motivator.

“Though I’ve just started at HYKK Solutions, I’m excited to explore different areas of the business and develop new skills that will contribute to the company’s growth.

“This program is a win-win, enabling graduates to discover their strengths while providing valuable talent to organisations."

Heath Parkin, director of HYKK Solutions, said: “The Graduate Placement Scheme was fast, efficient and incredibly valuable. It helped us address our digital profile and inbound marketing challenges by matching our needs with talented graduates.

“The calibre of candidates provided by the Placement Team was outstanding, and we’re delighted to have employed a graduate on a short-term part-time contract. I would highly recommend the scheme to businesses of all sizes – it worked for us!”

Graduates are encouraged to find out more about the scheme by visiting: www.futuegoals.co.uk/graduates.

Businesses are encouraged to find out more by visiting: www.wybusiness-skills.com/graduates.