Graduate recruitment fairs connect graduates and top employers in China
For the second consecutive year, Newcastle University Business School successfully held three in-person graduate recruitment fairs in China, marking a significant stride in the School's global engagement efforts with international employers.
31 October 2024
These high-profile events were organised in collaboration with a prestigious consortium of universities, including the University of Warwick, the University of St Andrews, Durham University, and the University of Exeter.
Designed to connect recent graduates with top employers, each fair hosted over 30 leading companies across Shanghai and Beijing, providing attendees with direct access to recruiters and insights into career paths, industry trends, and application processes.
Linda Lou, University Relations Manager of Talent Acquisition at Dell, praised the collaboration, saying: "We highly appreciate the collaboration these UK universities are providing. The organisation, including time management, venue management, and expectation management of the event, was perfect. Students who came to the event were much better prepared than at many other events we have participated in."
Rita Xu, People Manager at Hawksford, added: "This kind of event is beneficial for both the employers and candidates, providing an opportunity to talk face to face for a better understanding of the specific demand from both parties, increasing the overall recruitment efficiency. It helps candidates compare offers from different employers directly while also allowing them to feel the corporate culture and make decisions with more confidence. It helps employers to assess the candidates’ motivation, personality, communication skills, knowledge and position skills directly. It also connects the employers and the candidates, and more opportunities can be shared with candidates moving forward."
Complementing an established employability programme
These fairs complement an established employability programme delivered throughout the academic year, reinforcing the Business School's commitment to enhancing career prospects for its students on a global scale.
Chris Soan, Associate Dean of Education at Newcastle University Business School, said: "These recruitment fairs are a key part of our commitment to providing global career opportunities for our graduates. By bringing together top employers and talented students we’re creating invaluable connections that benefit both sides. This initiative not only enhances the employability of our graduates but also strengthens Newcastle University Business School’s position as a globally recognised institution for business education."
Reflecting on her experience as an international student, Poppy Pan, Talent Discovery HR Associate for SAP, shared: "As a previous international Chinese student, I always found it difficult to talk to employers or HR back home, as well as finding a job afterwards. Having an event specialized for Chinese students offers resources and care for them. Moreover, uniting five institutions together is such a creative way of increasing influence and opportunities. SAP China would love to continue this innovative and sustainable relationship with Newcastle University."
Further networking
Following the Shanghai recruitment fair, Business School students were invited to an alumni networking event, offering a valuable opportunity to connect and network with their alumni community. This event was attended by senior colleagues from the Business School including the Head of Professional Services, Kim Weston, who emphasised the importance of such gatherings: “Our alumni events are designed to strengthen the bonds within our community, giving current students the chance to engage with graduates who have established themselves in various industries. These connections not only inspire but also provide a direct link to insights and opportunities that can shape their career paths.”
