As a result, HLSM – part-funded by the European Social Fund – has worked with Lounge on a number of exciting collaborations and recruitment opportunities, including graduate roles and yearlong internships.

Seeking students and graduates to grow their business

Lounge Underwear are an increasingly popular business, whose brand has been built around comfort.

Since 2015, the company has moved from their own lounge into their 54,000 square feet HQME, a stunning facility located in Solihull.

Lounge committed to supporting the local community, and working with local universities for recruitment and graduate talent in order to grow their business further.

Developing a strong bond

In order to attain this talent, Lounge signed up to Birmingham City University’s HLSM project.

BCU were then able to support Lounge with the recruitment process for hiring graduate level talent, as well as creating links across the University.

“Since the first day we spoke with Nicole (Riley, Graduate Talent Consultant at BCU), we have felt nothing but support,” says Georgia Perry, Head of People at Lounge Underwear.

“She has gone above and beyond with her warm, contagious personality. We’re very lucky to have developed such a strong bond and we cannot thank her enough.”

A mutually beneficial partnership

The partnership has now stood strong for three years. In that time, students at BCU have secured:

• Graduate roles
• Yearlong internships at Lounge
• Valuable advice and guidance from the team.

The Covid-19 pandemic has strengthened the partnership. It saw Lounge become part of our virtual Meet the Employer series.

This saw students meet with businesses virtually to hear about what it’s like to work at the company, as well as to receive advice and guidance regarding applying for roles at Lounge.

Georgia is particularly pleased that the longstanding relationship with BCU has developed over time.

“Initially, our relationship began to support graduates securing roles, but has since blossomed into so much more,” she says.

“We’re so lucky to have built a trusting bond. We can now go to one another for anything, and express our thoughts and ideas.”

BCU has collaborated with a number of rising organisations in recent times, including boosting City of Birmingham Hockey Club’s social media skills.

Interested in gaining new skills, knowledge and talent? Find out more on how HLSM can help you.