Connect to Work - Reverse Career's Fair

First-of-its-Kind Reverse Careers Fair Set to Connect Isle of Wight Employers with Untapped Local Talent First-of-its-Kind Reverse Careers Fair Set to Connect Isle of Wight Employers with Untapped Local Talent Employers across the Isle of Wight are being invited to take part in a pioneering new event designed to challenge traditional recruitment and open doors to skilled local people who are ready to work. Taking place on 25th November 2026 at Building 64, Newport High Street, the Connect to Work Reverse Careers Fair will bring together Island employers, support organisations and jobseekers in a fresh and inclusive format. The event is being led by Connect to Work, delivered by Palladium, alongside a range of local partners and stakeholders. Unlike a traditional careers fair, where employers showcase their organisations to jobseekers, a reverse careers fair puts the spotlight on participants themselves. Employers will have the opportunity to meet potential candidates face-to-face, hear their stories, understand their strengths and explore how they could contribute to their organisations. The event will feature keynote speakers, employer success stories, networking opportunities and discussions designed to help businesses better understand the Connect to Work model and the support available when recruiting through the programme. Employers from sectors including tourism, automotive, retail, distribution, public services, administration, IT and marine industries are expected to attend. For Island employers facing ongoing recruitment challenges, skills shortages and increasing competition for talent, the event offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with motivated local people while receiving support from employment specialists throughout the process. By bringing employers, community organisations and support services together in one place, the fair aims to create lasting employment opportunities while helping businesses access talent that might otherwise be overlooked. India Martin-Cogger, IPS Employment Specialist for Connect to Work Isle of Wight, said: "This event is about creating meaningful connections between employers and people who have the skills, determination and potential to succeed in work. By turning the traditional careers fair model on its head, we're giving businesses the opportunity to meet candidates in a more personal and supportive environment, while helping participants showcase what they can offer." The event is also expected to strengthen collaboration between employers, support organisations and local services across the Island, creating a more joined-up approach to supporting people into sustainable employment. Stakeholders attending include health, education, employment and community organisations from across the Isle of Wight. Businesses interested in discovering new talent, improving workplace diversity and helping shape a more inclusive local workforce are encouraged to get involved. Notes to Editors Connect to Work Reverse Careers Fair Wednesday 25th November 2026 10am to 1pm Building 64, Newport High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1BA Connect to Work: Solent Connect to Work: Solent is a regionally tailored employment support programme delivered through a strategic partnership between the following local authorities: • Isle of Wight Council Together, these councils form the Solent Growth Partnership, working in collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions and local stakeholders to reduce economic inactivity and support individuals into meaningful employment.