February University of Galway and Deloitte Ireland announce new strategic partnership

Deloitte empowering students at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics as future leaders by celebrating academic excellence, mentorship and sharing professional expertise

University of Galway and Deloitte Ireland have today unveiled a new five-year strategic partnership, which sees Deloitte commit €550,000 to create opportunities for students to benefit from the company’s professional expertise, leadership and future career opportunities.

The partnership builds on the longstanding ties between Deloitte and J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at the University, which dates back to the establishment of the BComm (Global Experience) degree. It also cements Deloitte’s commitment to supporting education and academic excellence in the Connacht region.

In this new partnership, Deloitte will celebrate academic excellence across Bachelor of Commerce programmes by supporting Global Scholars, who study abroad as part of their degree, and by providing tailored mentorship and travel bursaries.

A scholarship is also being created, led by Deloitte employees, which is designed to empower students in their learning and career development, while a bespoke Deloitte business challenge and internship programme is also being established.

The partnership will see a dedicated collaboration hub within the BizHub at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, which is designed to foster creativity and innovation, encourage collaboration and promote excellence in teamwork.

Commenting on the partnership, Harry Goddard, CEO, Deloitte Ireland, said: "Investing in tomorrow’s leaders is critical for us at Deloitte. This partnership will develop the talent required to address the complex challenges faced by industries and institutions across the world. It will help to empower and prepare our future leaders for the future world of work.”

Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President of University of Galway, said: “One of our core values at University of Galway is excellence and the partnership that we are announcing with Deloitte today speaks to that. It is a shining example of leadership in action, where those who have gone before our students are creating more opportunities for them to excel and achieve.”

Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, said: “This Deloitte partnership centrally aligns with both our School mission, to make a transformative impact for our students, and our core values of openness and excellence. The new multi-dimensional partnership provides our students with excellent real-world learning experiences, scholarships and supports for international study which will set our students apart.”

Sinead Gogan, Chief Human Resources Officer at Deloitte Ireland, said: ‘’As the largest professional services firm globally, we understand the importance of growth through international experience and early access to the work environment alongside academic learning. Our collaboration will offer high performing University of Galway students an exceptional opportunity to connect with leading Deloitte professionals and alumni.’’

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