Leading Hull businesses join forces with Hull University Business School to develop future talent

The Authentic Business Learning (ABL) Partnerships bring together major regional employers including Connexin, Cranswick, Hull KR, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Procurement Partnership, and Summit, each committing to a two-year programme with the Business School to create a structured framework for long-term collaboration between businesses and students.

Under the partnerships, businesses will work with students on live commercial projects, contribute guest lectures, deliver workshops, attend networking events, support placements and graduate opportunities, and provide insights into the professional tools and systems used in their sectors. Activities will be tailored to the needs of each organisation.

The partnerships are designed to give employers early access to emerging talent while benefiting from student-led insights and fresh perspectives on real business challenges. They also help strengthen recruitment pipelines and raise organisations' visibility among future graduates.

For students, the programme provides opportunities to work on genuine business issues, gain industry experience and develop practical skills that improve their confidence and employability.

Professor Rob Dover, Dean of Hull University Business School, said: ""These Partnerships with some of the region's most influential employers, mark an important moment in the development of Authentic Business Learning, the approach that began here at Hull and which continues to define how we educate and prepare students for successful careers.

“At the heart of the ABL Partnerships is a shared commitment to developing the next generation of business talent and helping students gain a deeper understanding of the world of work before they graduate.

"Going beyond traditional placements and guest lectures, the partnerships create sustained relationships between students and real organisations throughout their studies, including opportunities to work on live commercial projects and tackle genuine business challenges.”

Representatives from the partner organisations gathered at Hull University Business School for the official signing ceremony, which provided an opportunity to explore future projects and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

Professor Dover said: "The signing ceremony marks a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation and talent development, creating value for students, businesses and the wider region."