IOD works with Exeter's Business Students

Businesses in Devon and Cornwall are being encouraged to offer work placements to students as part of a partnership between the University of Exeter Business School and the Institute of Directors.

This month, a new intake of Business School students were admitted to the IoD’s student membership programme, which offers them access to a range of resources and support to help further their careers.

This is the second year of the partnership and the focus this year is on building stronger and more practical relationships with the business community through two-week work placements.

The University was the first in the South West to pilot a student level membership designed to strengthen links between the region’s business community and future generations of entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Graduates in last year’s intake included Selin Yigitbatsi, who won the IoD’s first ever Student of the Year award 2013, beating off competition from all over the UK.

Professor Sandy Williams, Associate Dean of the Business School said: “At a time when students are contemplating an increasingly competitive jobs market, this is an important step to support them in making real life connections with the business world that will help them develop their entrepreneurial and business skills.

“The IoD is a perfect partner for us.  As Associate Dean for Education, I believe that a blend of theoretical and practical business skills is essential to make our students attractive to future employers; the IoD scheme is a great way of helping to achieve this.”

IoD Devon and Cornwall branch chairman Carleen Kelemen said: "I am delighted to welcome our new cohort of University of Exeter IoD student members. The IoD has been supporting business leaders for over a hundred years. As an IoD student member you are part of this exclusive group that represents the best of the UK’s business community."