Birmingham’s universities have become a hub for talent in tech and marketing, producing graduates who excel in their fields. The city’s educational institutions, paired with strong local industry connections, enable students and alumni to thrive professionally.
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Key Alumni Achievements:
- King Wellington (MBA, 2021): Co-founder of DONE BY US and creator of the Africa Street MBA, benefiting over 7,000 young Ghanaians.
- Mayra Souza (MSc, 2010): Global Trade Director, advising top organisations.
- Shelby O’Brien (BA Hons): Key account marketer at Hyve, managing brands like Microsoft and Lenovo.
- Shegun Otulana: Led a £1.25 billion tech exit with Therapy Brands.
- Grace Gimson: CEO of Holly Health, innovating in healthcare.
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Birmingham’s Growth:
- By 2025, the tech sector is expected to contribute £2.7 billion, create 52,000 jobs, and attract over £300 million in investments.
- Platforms like Connecting Birmingham link graduates to verified local jobs in tech and marketing.
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University Support:
- Mentorship programmes connect students with experienced alumni.
- Networking events and alumni collaborations open doors to career opportunities.
- Local partnerships ensure courses align with industry needs.
Birmingham’s alumni success stories, combined with a thriving tech and marketing ecosystem, highlight how education and local support drive professional achievements.
From $250k Raised to a $1.25B Exit with Shegun Otulana
How Birmingham University Networks Support Career Growth
Universities in Birmingham provide extensive support for students and alumni alike, paving the way for successful careers in fields like tech and marketing. These institutions go beyond just offering degrees - they create opportunities for students to connect with industry professionals and access structured mentorship schemes. Interestingly, while many U.K. students value university-facilitated placements, a significant number still secure these opportunities on their own.
"The wealth of experience and knowledge that past students bring can support current students on their employability journey, offer opportunities and guidance for recent graduates, and even inform how you deliver your careers services by providing insights into industry and the labour market."
– Elle Shea, Content Editor, HE Professional
This strong foundation of support naturally extends into mentorship and career development programmes.
Mentorship and Career Development Programmes
Birmingham universities have designed mentorship programmes that connect experienced alumni with students and recent graduates. These initiatives are tailored to help participants develop the practical skills needed in fast-evolving industries like tech and marketing. The pairing process is thoughtful, matching mentors and mentees based on their academic backgrounds, career goals, and professional interests. Mentors typically bring over a decade of industry experience and maintain active LinkedIn profiles, ensuring they can provide up-to-date advice and insights.
Through monthly meetings - whether virtual or in person - mentees can address real-world challenges, stay informed on the latest industry developments, and improve interpersonal skills essential for career advancement. As Scott Boyar, Ph.D., a management professor and faculty advisor, explains:
"The mentor-mentee partnership supports student development and can help guide students' academic and career aspirations today and into the future."
Beyond individual guidance, alumni mentors often act as connectors, introducing mentees to potential employers and professional networks. Universities also collaborate with alumni to co-create resources and interventions that further enhance career services.
Networking Events and Industry Connections
In addition to one-on-one mentoring, Birmingham universities host vibrant networking events that bring students, alumni, and local businesses together. These events go beyond traditional job fairs, offering activities like speed networking and industry-specific meetups to encourage meaningful connections. For example, Birmingham City University's Business School recently held a speed networking event featuring over sixty businesses, allowing students to engage directly with local employers.
"We organised this event to display the talents and real-world skills that our students and graduates possess - skills that can make a positive difference to the region's businesses."
– Emma Neale, Associate Professor and Employability Lead, Business School, Birmingham City University
These events not only provide career advice but also open doors to job opportunities, giving students a head start in their professional journeys.
Universities further strengthen career prospects by leveraging alumni networks to create strategic partnerships. A notable example is the University of Birmingham’s collaboration with a law firm, initiated by an alumnus who became a partner. This relationship resulted in three-month summer internships for law students. Additionally, alumni-driven LinkedIn groups allow for continuous networking and job postings, complementing in-person events and maintaining professional ties long after graduation.
To ensure their courses remain relevant, universities also incorporate alumni feedback into curriculum updates through advisory panels. This approach ensures that graduates are equipped with skills that align with industry needs.
Tech Success Stories from Birmingham Alumni
Universities in Birmingham have cultivated a thriving community of tech entrepreneurs and professionals who are making waves across various industries. The following stories underscore how local education and the city’s growing tech ecosystem have created clear pathways to success.
Featured Tech Alumni Profiles
One of Birmingham's standout tech entrepreneurs is Shegun Otulana, who made history in 2021 with the £1.25 billion sale of Therapy Brands. This company, built right in Birmingham, specialised in practice management software for healthcare providers, marking one of the region's largest tech exits.
Birmingham alumni have also been instrumental in advancing healthcare technology. Gary Pratt co-founded EarSwitch, a UK-based health tech startup that focuses on in-ear biometric control and sensor technologies. His company collaborates closely with the University of Birmingham's Healthcare Technologies Institute (HTI), highlighting the ongoing synergy between alumni and their alma mater.
In preventative healthcare, Grace Gimson, co-founder and CEO of Holly Health, has made a significant impact. Her company has piloted innovative projects in cardiac rehabilitation and primary care, addressing critical gaps in the healthcare system. Similarly, Istvan Petak founded Genomate Health, which leverages AI-powered computational models to help oncologists identify tailored cancer therapies for patients.
Birmingham’s tech training initiatives have also transformed careers. Through Innovate Birmingham’s programmes, Lee Panter transitioned into a role as a Front End Developer at Martin Retail Group. Meanwhile, Pete Wiley and Alec Justice became Software Developers at Altec, and Blake McCracken secured a position as a Software Support Analyst at KEYSYS. Taking an entrepreneurial route, Antoinette Washington launched Obliged Virtual Services, a company that supports small businesses with administrative tasks, social media management, customer service, and project management.
These stories demonstrate how strong university programmes and local partnerships have paved the way for success in tech.
How Birmingham Supported Their Career Paths
The achievements of these alumni are rooted in the comprehensive support provided by Birmingham’s institutions. The University of Birmingham’s Careers Network offers resources that go far beyond graduation, including career advice, industry event updates, and opportunities tailored for both new ventures and career progression.
The university’s Healthcare Technologies Institute (HTI) plays a pivotal role in supporting medtech startups. Entrepreneurs like Gary Pratt have benefitted from mentorship, collaboration, and funding opportunities, all made possible through partnerships with academic resources.
Innovate Birmingham has been particularly impactful in career transformations, offering bootcamps and training programmes that equip participants with essential tech skills. Graduates also gain access to career development opportunities. As one graduate, Catrina Callahan, puts it:
"You are unstoppable. STEM careers may seem scary and difficult, but don't underestimate yourself. You are smarter than you know - give yourself a chance and never forget you have a community who are always ready to help!"
Plug and Play further strengthens the ecosystem by connecting universities with the broader innovation network. This includes mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking, ensuring that promising ideas have the support they need to thrive. Additionally, the Careers Network’s digital hub keeps alumni connected, offering guidance and resources to foster a cycle of mentorship and shared experiences within the tech community.
Finally, platforms like Connecting Birmingham help tech professionals find verified roles at local companies, reinforcing the city’s robust talent pipeline.
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Marketing Success Stories from Birmingham Graduates
Birmingham's universities have a history of shaping talented marketing professionals who are making waves across industries. These graduates have successfully transformed their academic knowledge into impactful careers, highlighting the strength of Birmingham's marketing education and its professional networks.
Featured Marketing Alumni Profiles
Birmingham City University has nurtured many inspiring marketing careers, with graduates landing prominent roles in top companies and agencies. Take Jake Newton, for example - his strategic approach to internships during university laid the groundwork for his career. By building connections through these experiences, Jake secured a role at Ralph Lauren and now works as a CRM Executive for Center Parcs.
The agency scene has also seen its share of Birmingham graduates thrive. Samuel Lovesey, who gained hands-on experience with the University's marketing team and joined a mentorship programme during his studies, transitioned seamlessly into his first role at Inspired Thinking Group. Similarly, Sam Brown found Birmingham City University's MA Public Relations course offered the perfect mix of academic and practical learning. Today, he serves as a Senior PR Manager at WPR, one of the leading PR agencies outside London.
Entrepreneurial journeys are another highlight of Birmingham's alumni stories. Heather Tulloch took the lessons and internship opportunities from her time at BCU to launch her own branding business. Her ambitions include creating a collaborative space for local creatives in Birmingham. Meanwhile, Rimi Pankhania discovered her passion for PR through BCU's supportive environment, building a career in digital marketing and even starting her own food review page.
The global reach of Birmingham's marketing education is evident in Khash Zarrin's career. After earning a postgraduate degree in Music Industries, Khash was recruited as Avid's Global Demand Generation Marketing Manager. His journey underscores how Birmingham's programmes prepare graduates for international roles across diverse sectors.
Beyond university settings, Birmingham's marketing ecosystem has also produced leaders like Greg Schumann, who moved from roles at Southern Living and Coastal Living to become Vice President at Markstein, a Birmingham-based marketing communications agency.
These stories highlight the strong support system that fuels Birmingham's marketing talent, driven by university initiatives and local industry partnerships.
Using Birmingham's Marketing Network
Birmingham's marketing network continues to provide a solid foundation for career growth, building on the accomplishments of its alumni. Many graduates have tapped into university resources and local connections, gaining invaluable experience and forging professional links through internships.
Mentorship programmes offered by Birmingham's institutions are a cornerstone of this network. For instance, Samuel Lovesey's participation in a mentorship programme directly supported his successful entry into the agency world. These initiatives connect students with seasoned professionals, offering guidance, career advice, and often, job opportunities.
University marketing teams also act as training grounds for students. Samuel Lovesey's involvement with Birmingham City's marketing team gave him real-world experience to complement his studies. This hands-on approach equips students to apply their academic knowledge while building portfolios and earning professional references.
Courses like the MA Public Relations programme at Birmingham City University combine academic depth with practical application, ensuring graduates are ready to contribute immediately in their fields.
The city's marketing network also benefits from Birmingham's status as a major business hub outside London. Agencies like WPR demonstrate that top-tier marketing work thrives across the UK, not just in the capital.
For students and recent graduates exploring marketing opportunities in Birmingham, platforms like Connecting Birmingham offer access to verified roles with local companies. This helps maintain a strong link between Birmingham's educational institutions and its vibrant business community.
Finding Local Jobs Through Connecting Birmingham
Birmingham's tech economy is forecasted to contribute an impressive £2.7 billion in value by 2025, alongside the creation of 52,000 tech roles. This growth highlights the increasing demand for a platform that connects skilled professionals with local employers. Enter Connecting Birmingham - a service designed to link job seekers with opportunities in the area.
In 2020 alone, Birmingham saw the launch of 18,394 new businesses. For graduates and professionals aiming to build careers in thriving industries like digital health, clean energy tech, FinTech, and gaming, having direct access to quality roles is crucial. Connecting Birmingham rises to the challenge by offering a tailored, effective solution.
What Connecting Birmingham Offers
Connecting Birmingham functions as both a job board and a company directory, specifically crafted for Birmingham's tech and marketing sectors. Its verification process ensures that every job listing and company profile meets a high standard, giving users confidence in the platform's offerings.
Job seekers can use the free platform to explore company profiles and browse updated job listings. Beyond just job titles, the platform provides insights into company culture and team dynamics, allowing candidates to make well-informed decisions about their next career move.
One of the platform's standout features is its weekly job updates. Through the Careers Connect system, hundreds of new opportunities are added every week, spanning local, national, and even global roles. Users can customise their experience with personalised job alerts, ensuring they stay informed about roles that match their preferences.
For employers, the platform offers a reliable way to find talent. Companies must go through a verification process before posting roles, ensuring job seekers only encounter legitimate opportunities from reputable businesses.
The company directory is another valuable resource. It allows users to research potential employers in detail, with profiles that include information about the organisation’s culture, current team, and available roles. This helps job seekers gain a deeper understanding of companies before applying.
How Alumni Use the Platform
University of Birmingham alumni are among the platform’s most active users, leveraging it to stay connected with the city’s dynamic tech and marketing industries. All students and graduates of the University of Birmingham have access to the platform, creating a seamless transition from education to employment within Birmingham's growing tech ecosystem.
Given that the University of Birmingham is a top choice for graduate employers, Connecting Birmingham acts as an extension of the university’s career services. Alumni benefit from features like job alerts, which help them stay updated on sector trends, in-demand skills, and emerging companies.
The platform’s emphasis on quality over quantity resonates with alumni. Instead of wading through generic or unverified listings, they can focus on opportunities from trusted Birmingham businesses. This is particularly helpful for those transitioning between roles or exploring new career paths. The company directory feature allows them to research Birmingham's tech and marketing landscape, identifying organisations that align with their aspirations and values.
Connecting Birmingham also complements the University of Birmingham's Careers Network, which offers mentoring schemes, career fairs, and tailored advice. While the university provides vital career support during studies, Connecting Birmingham extends this assistance into the ongoing job search, ensuring alumni remain connected to opportunities.
For alumni working in Birmingham’s expanding sectors - such as digital health, clean energy tech, FinTech, and gaming - the platform is especially relevant. Its local focus allows users to identify opportunities within the city's emerging tech hubs, keeping them at the forefront of Birmingham’s economic growth.
Building Birmingham's Tech and Marketing Community
Birmingham's tech and marketing scene is thriving, driven by a mix of strong alumni networks and local professional connections. The West Midlands tech sector stood out as the fastest-growing in the UK during 2021 and 2022, cementing Birmingham's role as a key player in this growth.
What makes Birmingham unique is its distinct approach to building its community. As Steve Ammons, president and CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance, puts it:
"We have our own Birmingham way of developing our tech scene -- Birmingham is founder-focused, which creates a friendlier and more productive environment for innovators to ideate, collaborate and create startups for the future".
This founder-first mindset fosters genuine relationships, steering clear of shallow networking and instead encouraging meaningful collaboration.
The city's universities are central to its success, with 132,000 students in core disciplines feeding directly into the local talent pool. Svetlana Solomonova of BDP highlights this as a critical factor:
"The robust talent pipeline strengthens Birmingham's position as a leading tech hub".
The University of Birmingham, in particular, plays a pivotal role, being the most sought-after UK university by top graduate employers.
Birmingham also boasts impressive infrastructure designed to support innovation. The Innovation Birmingham Campus is home to over 170 digital tech businesses, Birmingham Research Park provides office and lab spaces, and the STEAMhouse Incubator offers vital resources for startups. These hubs encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing across various sectors.
This sense of community has also attracted financial backing. Venture capital investment in Birmingham’s tech startups hit record levels in 2023, reflecting a strong belief in the city's collaborative environment. Rebekah Taitt, Lloyds Bank's Regional Development Director for Midlands, SME & Mid Corporate, notes:
"Birmingham's tech sector has seen exciting developments, industry-wide collaborations, and increased investor attention".
This financial momentum not only strengthens the ecosystem but also draws in a wide array of professionals eager to be part of the city’s growth.
Birmingham’s inclusive and open community has created opportunities for diverse talent. Yiannis Maos, founder and CEO of TechWM, captures this sentiment perfectly:
"Birmingham's tech ecosystem welcomes key industry players, driven by local ambition and energy".
This openness has enabled traditional industries and emerging tech sectors to come together, sparking new ideas and innovations.
Platforms like Connecting Birmingham further reinforce these community ties by helping alumni and professionals find roles within verified local companies. By focusing on meaningful connections, the platform ensures that talent stays engaged with the city’s ecosystem, reflecting Birmingham's broader commitment to relationship-building.
The city also commands a quarter of the UK’s gaming sector and employs 56,000 tech professionals, representing 40% of the West Midlands’ tech workforce. This creates a critical mass of expertise, enabling knowledge-sharing and driving innovation.
At its heart, Birmingham’s strength lies in its diversity and collaboration. Alumni return to mentor, invest, and launch startups, creating a virtuous cycle that continues to fuel the growth of its tech and marketing community year after year.
FAQs
How do universities in Birmingham prepare students for careers in tech and marketing?
Universities in Birmingham equip students for careers in tech and marketing through practical, industry-driven courses. These programmes often feature hands-on modules, placements with local businesses, and certifications from respected organisations like the Chartered Institute of Marketing. This ensures students develop skills in both digital and traditional marketing, alongside expertise in emerging technologies.
Moreover, universities work closely with industry professionals to keep their courses aligned with the latest trends and needs in the tech and marketing fields. This collaboration helps graduates enter Birmingham's competitive job market with the knowledge and experience they need to succeed.
What support is available for Birmingham alumni looking to start their own business?
Birmingham's universities offer a wealth of support for alumni looking to start their own businesses. From mentoring sessions and business workshops to access to crucial resources, graduates have plenty of tools at their disposal. Many institutions also provide specialised enterprise hubs, designed to give personalised advice and opportunities for refining and developing business ideas.
Some of these programmes continue for as long as 12 months after graduation, giving alumni the breathing room they need to get their ventures off the ground. These efforts play a key role in helping graduates transform their aspirations into thriving businesses, further enriching Birmingham's dynamic entrepreneurial scene.
How does Connecting Birmingham support tech and marketing professionals in finding local job opportunities?
Connecting Birmingham streamlines the job hunt for tech and marketing professionals by curating a list of verified positions specifically within the Birmingham area. Every opportunity featured on the platform is carefully checked, ensuring job seekers connect with trustworthy local employers.
Focusing solely on the tech and marketing sectors, Connecting Birmingham not only helps professionals find roles that match their skills but also provides valuable insights into respected companies in the region. This approach creates a smoother, more dependable hiring experience for both job seekers and employers alike.
