Regional employer shortlisted for national graduate award

Nominated by Solent University, major regional employer B&Q have been shortlisted for the TARGETjobs National Graduate Recruitment Awards 2021.

The home improvement retailer has been recognised in the AGCAS Award for excellence in careers and employability category - in recognition of its outstanding support of students and graduates.

Deb Garrett, Wellness and Inclusion partner from B&Q says: "We’re honoured to be nominated for this award. Working together on projects with the students produces a wealth of innovative thought and fresh ideas on how we can better serve our customers in this digital age. Our colleagues really enjoy collaborating, too."

For the last four years, B&Q has been offering real world opportunities that offer Solent students’ the chance to use their skills, knowledge and insights in a professional setting. The home improvement retailer has also benefitted from the creative insights gathered through live briefs from the 200+ student body, which have been helping drive business forward.

This year, in response to Covid-19, B&Q delivered a virtual live brief to over 50 of the University’s Business Management students. They wanted to know how they could use social media influencers in future advertising campaigns, better position their digital offering for customers, and improve communications with colleagues working from home during the pandemic. 

“For the students, working with B&Q offers excellent real-world learning opportunities and has become a vital part of our business curriculum - boosting aspirations, confidence and employability,” says Meredith Smith, Deputy Head of Student Experience (Careers).

The winners of the largest careers recruitment awards in the UK, will be announced on 1 October 2021.