Talent Center Twente
Talent Center Twente, launched from Kennispark, aims to retain and attract talent to our region and provide businesses with easy access to this valuable workforce. A physical meeting space is being created where talent and companies can connect. Talent Center Twente serves as a central point from which various (existing and new) initiatives can be coordinated, providing clarity and oversight.
Talent Center Twente
Growth and new business activity in Twente rely on talent, as having enough well-qualified personnel is essential for an attractive business climate. The challenge today is finding skilled professionals for the jobs in Twente, both theoretically and practically trained. “The unique application of online and personal talent matchmaking leads to a better alignment between supply and demand in the labour market,” says Maarten Kuper, who co-leads Talent Center Twente with Manon Smellink.
Personalised Matchmaking
Talent Center Twente complements the online Job & Company Portal developed by Twente.com, an online hub where talent and companies can connect and find suitable matches. “You might be a jobseeker and find four companies that match your profile. In that case, you may need more information,” says Manon. “We provide that information at the physical meeting space, where we personally match talents with regional companies. Together, we determine which position at which company is the best fit, also considering longer-term prospects. This way, individuals add more value—for the company and for the region. Talent Center Twente’s support doesn’t end after the matching. “If needed, we also assist with career advice and coaching.”
Demand-Driven Approach
Talent Center Twente follows a demand-driven approach, which also applies to the events it organises. “We only organise what’s needed,” says Manon. “We gather these needs from the companies we work with. One of our activities, for example, is a bike tour to companies, featuring guided tours and workshops, or a meet-and-greet job fair.”
Collaboration
Many initiatives in Twente contribute to the talent challenge. “Talent Center Twente aims to collaborate with these initiatives,” says Maarten, “such as Maak het in Twente, Working in Nijverdal, Discover Industry Rijssen, and all the innovation hubs in Twente, with the goal of attracting, retaining, and integrating more talent in Twente. We also work with the ‘Happy to be in Twente’ project. In addition to partnering with companies, we are in contact with the University of Twente, Saxion, vocational schools, and corporate training schools.
Any company can join us; the demand is universal, from healthcare to chip design. Larger companies also benefit. They may be self-sufficient but are also dependent on suppliers. By working together and not viewing each other as competitors, we can expand the pie, so everyone gets a larger piece,” concludes Maarten.
Want to know more about Talent Center Twente?
Contact
Maarten Kuper
+31(06)-16047588
maarten.kuper@qbaylogic.com
Manon Smellink
+31(06)-23183195
m.smellink@wimm.nl