Member Article

UKTI encourage North West companies to export with help from international students

North West companies have been offered help to begin to export into new markets through the use international student placements within their companies.

The Postgraduates for International Business programme started earlier this year, and so far six North West companies have submitted applications.

International students can provide help to UK businesses hoping to export to new markets, and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is offering to assist companies who want to arrange placements.

Eleven universities have also been engaged in the programme including the University of Manchester and the University of Salford.

The nationwide student placement scheme run by UKTI began in the summer and provides valuable and cost effective access to languages, cultural and business knowledge in overseas markets.

Language and culture adviser Sara Knowles, said: “It is early days at the moment but universities are showing great interest in the programme and so far companies have requested assistance for projects requiring German, Brazilian Portuguese; South American Spanish and French speakers.

“Hiring an international student can help your company to address the language and cultural barriers associated with market entry and development and is a real asset to companies wishing to export.

“Examples of possible projects are: Website development; research on new markets and strategy; market visit support; development of international contacts; customer and supplier liaison, and helping follow up business leads.

“There is no set-up cost, and salary can be agreed between the employer and student.

“I would encourage people to talk to me or their international trade adviser to see how we can help.”

Careers manager from the University of Manchester, Amanda Conway, said: “The University of Manchester has an outstanding international talent pool with around 10,000 international students across a broad range of specialisms and nationalities.

“Our students are sought by regional businesses to support their international business operations, meet language requirements or offer cultural insights and we are delighted to be able to raise awareness of these opportunities through the new UKTI initiative.

“Many of our students are keen to gain experience in local organisations whilst in the UK and share their expertise within the region.

“They can also offer a valuable bridge to international markets upon returning to their home countries.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .