Newcastle University

Newcastle University Business School student Mutune Kilonzo recently joined engineering firm, Houghton International as part of the University’s Newcastle Work Experience (NWE) programme, run by the University's Careers   

Mutune, an MA International Business Management student, was taken on to redevelop and optimise Houghton International’s website. He was able to bring on board his experience of web design to the business and drive the project forward with his recommendations.  The placement has already had a significant impact upon the business with a new customer in the USA recently learning of their reputation following a Google search.   

Managing Director, Michael Mitten said “Mutune has not just provided us with a website; he has provided us with the major tool for marketing the business throughout the world.”

For Mutune “the placement was great. I really developed my communication and training skills and it gave me an insight into how IT outsourcing works in an SME.” 

Dr Tracy Scurry, Degree Programme Director for the IBM programme sees work experience opportunities such as these to provide benefits to all parties involved. "The students develop valuable transferable skills for their future careers and employers have the opportunity to obtain fresh perspectives and input to their operations”.

So far this academic year 40 students have been placed through the NWE programme into challenging projects in organisations across the local area. In 2009-10, the NWE team are aiming to help subsidise over 80 placements for SMEs, doubling the amount of students that could benefit from similar experiences to Mutune.

For an informal discussion or to offer a project to the scheme, contact Lesley Cairns, Placement Officer, on 0191 222 6469 or nwe@ncl.ac.uk.