University scheme ‘dramatically improved’ career prospects

KTP is the Government's leading knowledge transfer programme, designed to enable businesses to improve their effectiveness and productivity by accessing the knowledge, skills and expertise contained within universities. The scheme forms a partnership between a company and the university enabling the company to access whatever it requires to address a priority issue within the organisation. The partnership then recruits a high calibre graduate (KTP Associate) who facilitates this transfer of knowledge by working full time in the company under the joint supervision of the company and the academic partner. Projects typically run for 2-3 years.

Jason explains ‘My project was about helping Harmonic to develop longer term, more profitable relationships with its existing customer base. Harmonic wanted to move away from short term tactical contracts by developing a business model based on enduring and strategic relationships with customers. The new business model allows Harmonic to work more collaboratively with them by becoming a trusted advisor and provider.’

A KTP can reap rewards for many companies. Most businesses have lots of projects they would like to carry out but don’t have the time or the man power to do so; a KTP provides a dedicated person to tackle a particular activity. Also, many organisations know they need to change and adapt in order to compete and differentiate themselves in increasingly competitive marketplaces, but often don’t know how best to achieve this; through a KTP, businesses can tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience held within the university. Finally, as the scheme is subsidised by the government, it makes great financial sense.

Jason concludes ‘The project we undertook at Harmonic has produced a new business model that will result in much larger and longer contracts. This will in turn generate millions of pounds of additional revenue. From a personal perspective, the KTP was the best move I could have possibly made. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is prepared to work hard, stay organised and deal with some very different groups of people. In return you are given the opportunity and freedom to develop a real specialism and gain the kind of experience that is hard to find early in your career.’