People looking for the next step on their way to a new job are being invited to the Big Boost for Derby jobs fair.  

Taking place at Pride Park Stadium in Derby on 22nd November from 10am – 2pm, the free event will see major employers from across the region come together to offer hundreds of local jobs and employability skills training. 

Organised by Severn Trent and Derby Jobs, part of Derby City Council, the event also offers information on bill support for anyone struggling financially due to the cost of living.

Employers – including the NHS, Toyota, Rolls Royce, Hello Fresh and the National Trust – will be recruiting for live roles on the day, with Severn Trent looking to fill positions in its Customer Relations and Planning and Scheduling teams based at Pride Park and Raynesway. 

While anyone can turn up on the day, people can also book a slot online via Eventbrite.

Elizabeth Heath, Societal Lead at Severn Trent, said: “People may think that jobs at Severn Trent are mostly being out, working to upgrade pipes or fix leaks, but there are a massive range of different roles available. Customer service is at the heart of what we do as a business, so we make sure we’ve provided everyone with extensive training and support.  This is a really exciting time as we’re just about to implement a brand new, AI-powered customer service system which will revolutionise the way that we interact with our customers. 

“Being a part of our Planning and Scheduling team for example means that you’re actively helping to make sure that our teams are where they need to be to keep our water and waste networks running and includes planning, analysis and some administration, skills. There really is something for everyone!”  

As well as a huge array of jobs and apprenticeships available, people will be able to get a head-start on applying with the interactive employability skills sessions at the event available for free. This includes one to one support on CVs and practising interview technique using virtual reality, with on-the-spot feedback.

Severn Trent has collaborated with Derby City Council on the event to bring even more jobs and opportunities together all under one roof, making it easier and more accessible for those looking for work, or training and support.

Councillor John Whitby, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, Learning and Skills at Derby City Council, said: “We know how important good employment is for lifting people out of poverty and improving life chances, but looking for work, or a way to update your skills, can be a daunting experience.  This is a great chance for job seekers to come and speak to potential employers face-to-face, see what opportunities are out there and get the support they need.

“These events can’t be done without active involvement of employers, and we’re pleased to work in partnership with Severn Trent, through the Derby Jobs brokerage service.”  

The ‘Big Boost for Derby’, supports Severn Trent’s ambitions to help 100,000 people currently living in the Midlands, and supporting them into work and out of water poverty and follows the company’s announcement it will be creating 7,000 jobs for the Midlands and investing £12.9bn across the region between 2025-2030.

Elizabeth continued: “This event builds on the work Severn Trent is already doing in Derby, where we’ve been working in Normanton with free employability skills sessions, so we’re excited now to join forces and connect communities with employers, and welcome those who are either looking to find work, make a career change or build new skills.”

The company first brought its plans to Derby earlier in the year, where it’s since been working in the hearts of local communities such as Normanton and delivering vital jobs skills and training to those living in the community.

Anyone wanting to attend the event, can register for free over at Eventbrite here: https://tinyurl.com/derbyboost.