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Meet the Team

Our Employer Engagement Team is dedicated to building trusted partnerships with businesses across the region. The team delivers solutions that empower both learners and employers to thrive. Whether it’s supporting career progression, addressing skills gaps, or driving business growth, we are committed to delivering excellence we are here for you.

At the heart of our work are a set of principles:

You can count on us to approach every interaction with a can-do attitude to bring creative solutions and help drive your success.

We value our employers’ time, perspectives and goals and will work with you to ensure your unique business needs are met.

The team is committed to providing solutions tailored to your specific needs and challenges and will.

We connect employers with the resources, opportunities and networks that allow their business to grow.

How We Can Help

Our Employer Engagement Team offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the needs of employers. Whether you’re looking to recruit an apprentice, upskill your workforce, or collaborate on innovative marketing initiatives, we are here to help. Here’s just a few of the ways we can support you:

Recruiting an Apprentice: We understand that finding the right talent can be a challenge. Our team can guide you through the process, from identifying the right apprenticeship programme to sourcing motivated candidates who are eager to contribute to your organisation.

Training Solutions: From Skills Bootcamps through our bespoke training programmes, we can work with you to design solutions that align with your business objectives.

Power Partner Programme: Join our exclusive programme and access exclusive benefits, invitations to employer events and discounts on facilities and much more. For more information and how to become a member of the Power Partner Programme click here .

Monthly breakfast network meetings – in partnership with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, our BIG Breakfast meetings are a great opportunity to network with other businesses. Click here for dates of the meetings and how to book.

Why Choose Us?

Our range of services is designed to support organisations of all sizes and sectors. By working closely with you, we aim to understand your unique requirements and deliver solutions that align with your goals. Together, we can create a brighter future for both your organisation and our learners.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can support your organisation, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact our Employer Engagement Team today on 0121 602 7777 and discover the benefits of partnering with us.

Gary – Employer Engagement Manager

Gary joined Halesowen College in 2022 and leads the Employer Engagement Team, focusing on building strong, lasting partnerships that benefit both businesses and learners. He is committed to expanding the College’s engagement with employers through apprenticeship recruitment, industry placements, and a variety of work-based skills activity, to create more opportunities for young people and the wider regional workforce.

A veteran with experience in digital media sales and supporting small businesses, Gary previously ran his own business, gaining a deep understanding of how skills and industry needs intersect. He is passionate about employer engagement and ensuring that every partnership delivers real value for both learners and employers.

Deborah Maley – Employer Engagement Officer

Deb joined Halesowen College in 2006 and currently works as an Employer Engagement Officer. In this role, she focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with employers, providing comprehensive support with apprenticeship recruitment, particularly within the Business and Professional areas.

Throughout her time at the College, Deb has held a variety of roles, all centred around supporting others; whether students, apprentices, or employers. This extensive experience has given her a broad and valuable perspective on the needs of both learners and the businesses she works with.

She is passionate about raising awareness of the wide range of opportunities the College offers and how these can support the growth and development of local

Tess Harris – Employer Engagement Officer

Tess joined Halesowen College in September 2024 following a successful 22-year career in recruitment. During this time, she developed a strong passion for engaging with people and building lasting, positive working relationships. Her extensive experience in recruitment has provided her with valuable insight into what employers look for and how to help individuals reach their full potential in the workplace.

Tess is passionate about education and supporting learners to achieve their goals. Her role allows her to help students gain the skills, confidence, and experience they need to take their first steps into the world of work. She takes great pride in providing opportunities that inspire learners and set them up for success in their future careers.

Tess specialises in Early Years, Pharmacy, and Healthcare, working closely with learners and employers to create meaningful learning and employment opportunities. She believes every learner deserves the chance to shine and is dedicated to helping them build a strong foundation for lifelong success.