Become an Enterprise Advisor

As an Enterprise Adviser, you'll:

• Join a national and local network to develop your own skills
• Build strong relationships with your local school or college
• Share insights into your organisation and industry 
• Support senior leadership teams with strategic careers planning 
• Help embed labour market information into the careers programme 
• Develop your communication and strategy skills 
• Support workforce development and diversity 
• Engage local businesses to broaden careers opportunities for students 
• Help deliver world-class careers guidance 
• Gain a deeper understanding of the education sector and its challenges

• Give back to your local community 
• Promote your brand and sector locally 
• Support schools in delivering high-quality careers guidance 
• Gain experience in strategic planning in a new context 
• Strengthen communication and leadership skills 
• Build lasting relationships with education providers 
• Understand the challenges faced by the education sector 
• Network with other professionals across Norfolk & Suffolk 

In my role as an Enterprise Advisor to a local school, I’ve had the privilege of working directly with students to bring these industries to life. Through talks, assemblies, and classroom sessions, we’ve taken a hands-on approach — even involving our Head Chef and Marketing Manager in school visits. Together, we’ve demonstrated how to de-bone and cook the perfect duck breast for food tech students, while also offering insights into the role of marketing and the power of branding in building a successful business. These experiences have helped students see the real-world applications of their studies and the exciting possibilities within our sector. 

I truly hope the time we’ve spent with young people has made a lasting difference. The impact is already visible — since joining the Careers Hub, we’ve seen a significant increase in apprenticeship applications, a clear sign that our efforts are resonating. This kind of engagement has tangible benefits for businesses too. The earlier we plant the seed of opportunity and provide students with insight into our industry, the more likely they are to consider a future within it. Beyond our own business, this work helps raise the profile of food manufacturing and farming more broadly, supporting the growth and sustainability of the wider industry. 

I would encourage all businesses to get involved in the Careers Hub. The more options young people are exposed to, the better equipped they are to make informed decisions about their future. It’s essential that we provide them with comprehensive information — ideally with representation from all sectors — so they can discover what truly resonates with them. At the same time, businesses must understand the education system: what’s being taught in schools and how it aligns with the skills we need. When education and industry collaborate, we create stronger pathways for the next generation and build a more prepared future workforce.

Carrie Barrett

Learning & Development Manager, Gressingham Food

I first discovered that Becketts was a Cornerstone Employer through our Executive Chair, and wanted to get involved to learn more about the Careers Hub and how we could make a difference.

With my HR background, I’ve supported students with CV writing, mock interviews, and interactive sessions on essential workplace skills like communication and teamwork. My colleagues at Becketts also attend careers fairs, deliver Financial Services talks in schools and colleges, and as a company, we offer work experience and Apprenticeship opportunities.

One moment that stands out was when one of our Enterprise Advisers gave a talk at a local college. A student later reached out asking about job opportunities, and that student became our first Apprentice recruit. Today, they’re thriving in their career at Becketts and are on track to complete a Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship with WS Training. Since then, we’ve created more Apprenticeship roles to support young people.

As an Enterprise Adviser at a local school, I also lead the learning and development function at Becketts, ensuring every team member has the chance to reach their full potential. Working with the Careers Hub has helped me understand the importance of bridging the gap between education and employment and highlighted the challenges young people face. The Hub brings Cornerstone Employers together to share experiences and collaborate. Darian, our Enterprise Coordinator, encouraged me to take on the Enterprise Adviser role and assured me I could shape it around my skills. Initially, I felt daunted having no children myself, but the experience opened my eyes to the challenges teachers face and how much they value employer support.

Through this journey, I’ve gained huge respect for teachers and learned how technically advanced schools have become. I’ve also discovered the wide range of Apprenticeships available, which are fantastic alternatives to university that allow students to earn while they learn.

My experience with the Careers Hub network has been incredibly positive. It’s a friendly, supportive group of like-minded people who want to make a difference. Karen Cross, in particular, has been knowledgeable and encouraging, and through these connections, we’ve even secured great new recruits for Becketts.

We’ve built lasting partnerships too. I’ve teamed up with another Enterprise Adviser to share responsibilities at a local school, and we’ve developed a strong relationship with WS Training, who deliver our Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship programme.

This experience has shaped our approach to careers education. We’ve introduced Apprenticeship roles as part of our career progression structure and encouraged younger staff to engage with schools so students see relatable role models. We’re also exploring teacher encounters to help educators understand how their subjects connect to our industry.

I’ve learned that there are so many career paths and education options. It’s about helping young people see what’s possible. While qualifications matter, attitude and behaviour often make the biggest difference in the workplace.

I would absolutely recommend getting involved. You can make a huge impact, even for just one student. You might be the person who sets them on the right path for their entire career.

Rebecca Ellis

Talent Development Manager, Beckett Financial Services

1. Let us know which areas of Norfolk or Suffolk you’d like to support by completing this form: Register here
2. We will connect you with an Enterprise Coordinator and share more information about the schools or colleges in the area
3. You select which school(s) or college(s) would be the best ‘fit’ for you
4. We’ll arrange a DBS check and ask you to complete a Memorandum of Understanding, which includes safeguarding guidance and how to keep young people safe
5. We’ll introduce you to your matched school or college and provide ongoing support