Regional graduate jobs board Gradsouthwest has launched a partnership with Business West, the South West’s largest business membership organisation, to provide firms with a quality service to access an unlimited pool of graduate talent.
The collaboration marks Gradsouthwest’s first anniversary as a private company. Founded in 2001 by university careers departments, the service is now managed by the former staff team who are passionate about the value graduates bring to the local economy. 
Retaining strong campus links, Gradsouthwest attracts candidates from a wide range of universities and disciplines who share a desire to work in the South West.
Gradsouthwest director Dr Deborah Watson said: “We are delighted to be working with Business West and to feature as one of their impressive suite of business solutions.
“As a small business ourselves, we recognise just how critical high quality business support can be, and welcome the opportunity to assist other businesses in accessing talent to drive innovation and growth.”
Business West managing director Phil Smith added: “Gradsouthwest has an excellent reputation and is led by an experienced and passionate team. Youth unemployment remains a barrier to long-term economic growth, and businesses tell us that the skills gap is hurting them day-in, day-out.
“This platform addresses this issue by linking our young talent with businesses of all sectors and sizes. I am pleased to welcome them to our extensive network of partners.”
Business West, which covers Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, is the UK’s largest network of chambers of commerce, representing more than 16,000 businesses across the South West, including through Bristol Chamber of Commerce. It also runs the Bristol Initiative.
To celebrate the collaboration, recruiters can take advantage of a 10% discount using code BW012016 until the end of July with Gradsouthwest.
