The Ulster University Business School recently marked a significant milestone in developing future leaders for the North West region with the grand finale of the 2024 Talent Hub. Held at the Derry campus, this celebratory event highlighted the accomplishments over 100 students who successfully completed the transformative programme. Designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, the Talent Hub is nurturing the next wave of professional talent to drive economic growth and innovation in the region.

A Visionary Initiative with Impact

‘Talent Hub’ is an innovative programme coordinated by Ulster University in collaboration with FinTrU and Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. The initiative connects talented students with local employers, fostering professional networks and ensuring the retention of future talent in the North West. By aligning academic learning with real-world business needs, the Talent Hub is not just a skills development programme but a pivotal effort to strengthen the region’s workforce pipeline.

Chamber Members Cara McCartney, Millennium Forum and Leon Stevenson, Barclays talking with an Ulster University Student during Talent Hub

Equipping Students for the Future

Over the course of the programme, students participated in a series of four co-designed workshops that provided them with essential skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities.

The grand finale featured the highly anticipated ‘Pitch for Placement’ segment, where students showcased their talents and ambitions to an audience of over 20 local employers and business leaders including Chamber members Aware NI, Barclays, FinTrU, Foyle Port, Frylite, Go Succeed NI for DCSDC, Hays Recruitment, Institute Football Club, Kainos, The Millennium Forum, Moore NI, The Playhouse, Rutledge Recruitment, Ulster University, and Wild Atlantic Distillery.

Ulster University Students pitch at the Talent Hub Finale

Industry Insights and Collaboration

Adding to the afternoon’s impact, Kathleen McDermott, Executive Director at FinTrU, participated in an engaging Q&A session. Students, who had submitted questions throughout the project, gained valuable insights on placement opportunities, career development, and professional guidance. This interaction highlighted the programme’s emphasis on direct engagement between students and industry leaders.

Anna Doherty, CEO of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, lauded the initiative’s success, stating, “The Derry Chamber is delighted to work so closely with Dr Mary Crossan and her team on the development of the Talent Hub, especially at a time when growing skills and a sustainable talent pipeline has never been more important for business. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to support a thriving North West economy.”

Building a Brighter Future for the North West

The Talent Hub’s 2024 programme exemplifies Ulster University’s commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem of education, industry, and community collaboration. The grand finale was not only a celebration of student achievement but also a testament to the power of partnerships in creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for the region.