A new graduate led programme run by the University of Wolverhampton is looking for skilled graduates to work for forward thinking businesses in the region.

The Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise Network (KEEN), part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, is designed to give aspiring graduates a platform to kick-start their careers.

A three-way relationship is formed between a recently qualified graduate (known as an Affiliate), a West Midlands based business and a regional university. The Affiliate’s role is to lead an innovative project with the ultimate aim of increasing the company’s profitability and helping it to achieve growth. The project can last between 6 to 24 months.

The University recently launched a web portal where graduates can register their details to receive updates on KEEN vacancies.

Emma Pearson, KEEN Manager, is responsible for developing and managing the University’s portfolio of KEEN programmes. She said: “We are looking for high calibre graduates who can offer businesses a fresh perspective on the way they work. The programme provides graduates with a real career opportunity. KEEN stands out from other graduate programmes as Affiliates are placed at the heart of a company’s growth plan and are given the chance to put their degree into ‘real world practice’.”

KEEN was successfully launched on July 4. There are already eight programmes under way, with a further 18 in the pipeline. Given the diversity of the projects, KEEN is open to graduates from a wide range of disciplines.

Projects include an Exercise Professional role at a company that provides cardiac and exercise rehabilitation programmes. The role involves assisting the understanding and progression of cardiac rehabilitation.  Another role for Marketing and Communications Officer is due to start soon, which involves implementing sustainable growth strategies for three independent distribution businesses based in Cannock and Stafford.

Examples of other KEEN Affiliate jobs include Design and Development Engineer; Construction Health and Safety Developer; and Logistics Manager.

Graduates are encouraged to register at www.wmkeen.org to be notified of the latest KEEN Affiliate vacancies.

To find out more about KEEN and the opportunities it offers, visit www.wlv.ac.uk/keen.

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