My research investigated the disconnect between higher education (HE) and industry in addressing graduate skills gaps. Mismatched expectations, communication barriers and the intricate balance of priorities make this issue just as critical today.

Leeds Trinity University employs career-led initiatives, with the introduction of its annual Professional Challenge,  Leeds Trinity Connections - a sector-specific Mentor Programme, and an integrated Work-Related Learning curriculum aimed to better prepare graduates for the workplace.

Why it matters

Industry changes often outstrip the adaptability of HE, creating tension between employers' need for ’work-ready’ graduates and academic constraints. My research highlights challenges universities face, such as complex academic frameworks and a decline of student engagement with careers services. These challenges are compounded by students’ increasing work commitments and financial pressures, with some reporting negative impacts on their studies of extracurricular engagement.

The role of skills and placements

An important question is whether HEIs are providing students with the right skills or whether the issue lay in mismatches between graduate supply and industry demand. Initiatives like the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Graduate scheme helps local businesses recruit talented graduates. As an anchor institution, is it important that we contribute, shape and support this agenda.

Effective graduate recruitment requires early engagement and placements to bridge that gap. It is essential students benefit from such opportunities so employers can identify and nurture talent early. We embed placements across our UG programmes and provide a managed service from role scoping, advertising and support with interviews. We work with organisations to ensure a smooth process with a flexible model including part-time, in person and remote formats.

Sustainable Relationships – A model for success

Sustainable engagement with industry requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on mutual benefit and a clear understanding of priorities. We have a history of building relationships through long standing placements and academic schools’ flagship events such as Journalism and Media Week, which bring together thought leaders, employers, alumni and students to explore sector trends and career opportunities.

Our Professional Challenge brings multidisciplinary students together to solve UNSDG problems set by employers, fostering collaboration and critical thinking to address community and regional issues.

Leeds Trinity has formalised partnerships with local employers in the digital sector to offer placements and projects. Regional companies including Hippo Digital, Liberty Global and UST work with us to create frameworks for dialogue and flexibility in how employers address skills gaps and foster talent attraction.

Lifelong learning and employability

Lifelong learning is essential for graduates to thrive. Employers in my research cited frustration with graduates displaying a grade-driven approach to work – a mindset stemming from a prescriptive education that focuses on short-term performance over long-term development.

Universities must encourage reflection and curiosity to prepare students for evolving career landscapes, and our investment in a Career Passport does exactly this. Embedded via our Curriculum for Social Justice, it allows students to take ownership of their development and record their experiences. This, combined with access to tools such as LinkedIn Learning, form a core part of our curriculum and commitment to our students’ development.

Leeds Trinity’s approach provides a blueprint for progress between HE and industry. By fostering partnerships, integrating employer insights into curricula and creating opportunities for students to engage with real-world problems and placements, we equip graduates with the skills, confidence and mindset to thrive. For universities, this is more than an opportunity—it is an obligation.

Emily Timson is Director of Graduate Outcomes and Enterprise at Leeds Trinity University.

This blog was originally published by The Business Desk.