A new focus on employability

Ranked in the UK top 10 for the number of graduates entering professional employment, Northumbria University already has a strong reputation for graduate employment.

“My course really appealed as it enabled me to take a year out working in industry,” she said.

“My placement at Disney, as a concierge cast member, was an amazing life experience. I worked in a demanding environment, met new people from different cultures and made friends from all over the world.

“Working as a marketing assistant at Barbour was crucial in helping me get the job I have today. It was directly linked to my degree and included working with retail stockists to set up events and provide them with props and imagery.

“I would 100% recommend a placement year to any student thinking about it as your hard work really does pay off and gives you a huge advantage when applying for jobs in the future – it’s been so beneficial to getting where I am today.”

“I chose Northumbria as it’s one of the best places in the country to study Building Surveying. As my particular course is geared towards a practical career, it’s really useful to get that hands-on experience through a year in industry. There’s a big difference between reading something in a book and seeing it on site – my placement has really helped to bridge this gap and made things a lot clearer.

“I have several projects ongoing at the moment – from roof repairs to flat refurbishments – and it’s so satisfying to see the progress being made and jobs being completed. I feel incredibly lucky to be working on such a historically rich and prestigious building and I’m now sure that I want to work in conservation and restoration. This experience will definitely help when I’m applying for jobs in the same sector.”

Our newly-appointed Head of Employability & Enterprise, Doug Cole, will build on these foundations and tells Northumbria University News why he shares the University’s passion for enhancing the employability of all Northumbria students.

As a former senior sports lecturer who has managed sports and leisure businesses in China, Hong Kong and Bangkok, as well as working as a senior lecturer and Employability Project Manager, Doug has extensive experience in both lecturing students and recruiting graduates. He sees his appointment as a clear signal of Northumbria’s dedication to employability.

“There is no doubt that Northumbria is committing to become leaders in the field of employability, so this is a great opportunity for me and one I am really looking forward to,” says Doug.

“It’s worth noting from the outset that there is a difference between employability and employment.

“Employability is about far more than just a job – it’s about developing the individual, helping someone develop a fulfilling career or even start their own business.

“From my own experiences in business and lecturing I came to appreciate just how important employability is, and began to ask whether enough really was being done to address this area.”

Doug will begin his new role by learning more about the current good practice taking place and also sharing some of his experiences with colleagues.

“We need to remember that employability is not just for the Careers Service at the end of three or four years,” he says.

“We all need to take ownership of this key area of work so a major part of my role will be looking for ways we can develop this further.”