Local businesses are needed to share their expertise and insights and support the development of future skills in the town and county by steering students to career success.

The University of Northampton (UON) is inviting companies to join an initiative tasked with boosting local business success and nurture the next generation of professional talent.

The Professional Mentoring Programme connects undergraduate students with experienced professionals to support their transition into the workplace.

The programme offers mentors the opportunity to share industry insight, explore career pathways with students, and support the development of professional skills and confidence, while also engaging with emerging graduate talent at a pivotal stage in their careers.

Mentoring also offers clear benefits for businesses who volunteer, including the development of leadership and communication skills, gaining fresh perspectives, and the satisfaction of supporting others. Full training and resources are provided, and mentors can choose to take part in as many cohorts as their availability allows.

The programme is open to professionals at any stage of their career, from early career practitioners to senior leaders.

Rowena Panter, Mentoring Coordinator at the University, said: “Since its launch nine months ago, 84 final year students have been matched with mentors as part of the 12-week online programme.

“Mentors meet with their mentees a minimum of six times, with flexibility around availability, to explore career options, industry insight, and professional development. Feedback from both mentors and students has been overwhelmingly positive. The team and I look forward to talking with you about the many mutual benefits the Professional Mentoring Programme offers.”

How to get involved
Professionals interested in becoming a mentor can register via the online form. Those who would like to find out more are welcome to contact the Mentoring Coordinator, Rowena Panter, at careermentoring@northampton.ac.uk