:focal(1914x908:1915x909)){kind=small}
At Norwich Business School, we are dedicated to enhancing our students' employability and preparing them for successful careers in a competitive job market. We recognise that collaboration between our institution and employers is essential for boosting student employability, which is why we actively seek opportunities for partnership. By partnering with us, you can play a key role in shaping the next generation of business leaders. Together, we can provide students with invaluable real-world experiences, mentorship opportunities, and insights into industry trends. Your support not only helps students develop essential skills but also ensures they are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the workforce, creating a mutually beneficial relationship for both students and employers.
“It’s always an absolute pleasure to work with the Norwich Business School. We are never short of volunteers to join the events, which have included speed networking, interview techniques, and business skills training.
The students show so much enthusiasm, creativity, and intellectual curiosity to use their learnings as a catalyst for further growth. It makes it a rewarding experience for our colleagues as well!”
James J. Ketteringham
Managing Director at Marsh Ltd, FINPRO Division NorwichCat Hinchliffe
Head of Conduct, Admin and Technical at Marsh Ltd
About our Employability Director
James Gardiner is an Associate Professor in Marketing and Management and Director of Employability, Enterprise, and Placement in Norwich Business School. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, the Chartered Management Institute, and the Higher Education Academy (HEA). James is a co-founder of the EdTech firm Studious Digital Education Ltd, creator of the award-winning Ryze app.
Educated in the Netherlands at an international school, James previously worked in the financial sector in the City of London as a Lloyd’s of London broker with Willis Towers Watson Plc and as an Insurance Underwriter and then Marketing Manager at US insurer, Chubb Inc. James subsequently joined a Netherlands based software company as Marketing Manager (EMEA) before co-founding a technology and management consultancy working with Sony and Microsoft etc and held the role of Marketing Director and then Managing Director. He has taught at the University of Cambridge and Harvard University and advised the Chartered Management Institute and Westminster HE on policy. James has founded 4 businesses and delivers executive-level courses to organisations such as Aviva, Norwich City FC, and the NHS.
Employability Week
Each Autumn, we host our annual Employability Week when teaching is suspended, and we focus solely on our students’ future career. We are joined by over 40 professionals who host sessions about their organisations, their careers, and graduate opportunities. This is an invaluable opportunity for employers like you to support our students in developing the essential skills they need to become the next generation of business leaders, whilst also showcasing your company and available career opportunities.
Professional Skills Week
Designed to develop the skills that our student’s need to land that first graduate role, start a business or get their dream placement, Professional Skills Week is packed with back-to-back sessions to enable just that. As a business, you can play a crucial role in this initiative by participating in activities such as speed networking, mock assessment centres, or practice interviews. These sessions are designed to help support and boost the confidence of our students’, whilst ensuring they are fully prepared to enter the professional world.
Graduate Job Week
As a business, our Graduate Job Programme is an excellent opportunity for you to connect with our talented final-year students who are eager to secure a graduate role. By hosting a session, you'll have the chance to engage directly with NBS students, showcase your available roles, and meet potential candidates. You can share valuable application tips, provide insights into your company, and help our students put their best foot forward as they prepare to enter the job market. It's a great way to find top-tier talent while supporting the next generation of business professionals.
Other ways to work with us
There are numerous ways your business can collaborate with us to enhance our students' employability. Whether it's delivering a guest lecture in one of their modules, participating in mentorship programmes, or offering real-world examples for practical coursework, your involvement can make a significant impact.