Ulster University Business School graduates hat trick of awards

Keith Houston an Ulster University Business School graduate picked up a hat trick of awards both locally and internationally in recognition of his innovative approach to recruitment.

Having just completed an MSc in HR Management at the Business School, Keith is currently Graduate Recruitment Consultant and On-Campus Liaison with Northern Ireland’s largest IT company, Allstate Northern Ireland.

Recognising the importance of attracting next generation IT talent to Allstate, thereby keeping the company at the forefront of a rapidly changing technological landscape, Keith introduced a new approach to recruitment. Called ‘Insights’, his concept took the form of a week-long voluntary programme designed for first year undergraduates. Potential employees are exposed to all aspects of Allstate and in turn Allstate is able to raise awareness of its culture, brand and job opportunities within the company.

His initiative has resulted in a run of awards which began in May when he claimed the Outstanding HR Student of the Year title at the 2018 CIPD NI HR Awards in Belfast. In September, he added another gong with the Michael Kelly Outstanding HR Student Awards – Advanced Level at the CIPD People Management Awards 2018 held in London.
Completing his success story to date Keith, whose MSc was achieved with Distinction, will, in early 2019, be awarded the Labour Relations Agency Prize for producing an exceptional dissertation as part of his course.