Department for Enterprise seeks partners for Manx Graduate Fair

The Department for Enterprise has announced plans to host a fair highlighting the wealth of opportunities available for graduates looking to return to the Island after studying.

The first Locate Isle of Man Graduate Fair will take place during the Easter term break, on Wednesday 17^th April 2019 at Woodbourne House, and the Department is seeking expressions of interest from local businesses who offer specific graduate fast-track or apprenticeship schemes and would like to take part.

Minister for Enterprise, Laurence Skelly MHK, commented:

‘Promoting the return of our Manx graduates is an important part of the Department for Enterprise’s plans to grow the number of economically active residents in the Isle of Man. Around 400 students pursue studies in the UK and further afield each year. Encouraging their return helps to bring new talents and fresh insight back to the Island, and also supports local business in finding the skilled workers they need to succeed.’

He explained that the fair will challenge some of the perceptions around starting a career in the Island:

‘Manx students will be well aware of the natural beauty and excellent quality of life that the Island offers, but they might not know about some of the innovative businesses that now call the Isle of Man ‘home’, and the career opportunities that they are able to offer.’

The Manx Graduate Fair aims to match graduates with local businesses who are recruiting, and businesses who take part will be able to showcase the opportunities that their organisations offer. They will also be encouraged to take part in panel discussions and one-to-one interviews with potential candidates. Businesses who would like to take part are requested to register their interest here. A separate registration for students and attendees will open in the New Year.

The graduate fair is being hosted by Locate Isle of Man, an initiative from the Department for Enterprise, which promotes the Isle of Man as a place to live, work and do business.

• Businesses who would like to express interest in taking part in the Manx Graduate Fair should register here before the closing date, which is 17^th January 2019.
• Organisations and businesses who do not specifically recruit graduates, but are interested in taking part as speakers, or in panel discussions, are requested to email dina.hill@gov.im 
• The Manx Graduate Fair will take place on Wednesday April 17^th 2019