Skip the NI Direct Bar
Skip navigation

Farry launches graduate management development programme

Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Stephen Farry today launched the 2012 INTRO Graduate Management Development programme in Belfast
~ Thursday, 2 February 2012

The INTRO Programme, which is delivered by Parity Solutions Ltd on behalf of the Department for Employment and Learning, is an Entry-Into-Management level initiative designed to develop the managerial and business skills of graduates within Northern Ireland.

Speaking at Parity’s Belfast offices, the Minister said: “The development of management skills for graduates is essential particularly in today’s challenging economic climate. The INTRO programme delivers real value to the graduate and employer alike. The initiative allows graduates to build and develop their managerial capability by offering practical management and leadership training coupled with industry work experience.

“Employers will gain from the graduate’s fresh perspective, enthusiasm and skills. A recent review of the Management Development programmes has shown companies using INTRO reporting significant commercial returns which benefit the company performance.”

The programme is offered to graduates seeking employment, and those who are currently working in a NI company but who could benefit from the skills development that INTRO offers.

The 24 week INTRO programme provides a mix of classroom based learning focusing on commercial and personal skills training and 20 weeks industry placement. Participating graduates, who are employed for the duration of the programme, also receive an Advanced Diploma in Management Practice validated by the University of Ulster.

Notes to editors:

  1. INTRO is the Department for Employment and Learning’s Graduate level Entry To Management Programme.
  2. Further details can be obtained from Department for Employment and Learning Management Development Branch on 028 9090 5349 or the website
  3. Photographs from the event are available by calling the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7793 or on flickr
  4. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7492. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.