Invested in your future

Our Graduate Gateway Programme is designed to develop ambitious graduates into confident, capable professionals, ready to take on future Client Officer roles. Over two years, you will gain hands on experience across different areas of the organisation, building both specialist skills and a deep understanding of how the organisation operates. If you are driven, curious and eager to make an impact, this programme is built for you.

Why choose Invest NI

Invest NI drives Northern Ireland’s economic growth by helping businesses innovate, compete and succeed. We foster a supportive and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and contributions truly matter, guided by our core values:

  • Client Focus

    We deliver for our economy 

  • Integrity

    We are honest and accountable

  • Excellence

    We set high standards

  • Respect

    We value everyone

  • Collaboration

    We work together

Our Graduate Gateway Programme gives you practical experience across different areas of the organisation, exposure to meaningful projects, and opportunities to develop broad organisational knowledge. With mentorship, continuous learning, and clear pathways to career progression, you will develop the skills and knowledge to take on future leadership roles. All members of the programme can benefit from:

  • A competitive salary starting at £33,542 (EOI, August 2025)

  • Hybrid and flexible working options in an inclusive work environment

See a full list of our employee benefits.  

Who we are looking for

We are looking for candidates who have a Minimum 2.2 degree in any discipline achieved by August 2026 (obtained within the last 5 years, including Master’s), with the right to work in the UK.

Candidates should have the ability to build and develop strong stakeholder relationships alongside:

  • Strong financial awareness

  • Strong business acumen

  • Excellent communication skills

If the Graduate Gateway Programme receives a high volume of applications, we may assess candidates against our desirable criteria which can be found in our information for applicant's pack.

About the programme

Our two year programme will allow you to rotate through structured placements, gain real-world experience and build the skills needed to thrive in a client-facing role. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to overseas trade missions. You will be supported every step of the way by experienced mentors, expert-led training and a network of fellow graduates. Graduates are placed across our Belfast headquarters with placement opportunities in our regional offices:

  • Belfast City
  • Western Regional
  • Southern Regional
  • Eastern Regional
  • North & Northwest Region 

Upon successful completion of the two year programme you will have the opportunity to take up a Client Officer role.

Year 1 - build your foundations

Months 1–6: induction & deep learning

Start strong with a comprehensive induction programme delivered in a group setting. You’ll gain:

  • A deep understanding of Invest NI and our role in the economy
  • Insight into our relationship with the Department for the Economy (DfE)
  • Training in customer service, communication, and digital systems
  • Exposure to real-world client journeys and funding processes

Months 7–12: Assistant Client Officer placement

Apply your learning in a live business environment:

  • Shadow experienced client-facing staff
  • Attend client meetings and business development committees
  • Support research, casework, and analysis
  • Collaborate on a group project with fellow graduates

Year 2 - expand your impact

Months 12–18: regional office placement

You will be based in our regional offices, working directly with local businesses and stakeholders:

  • Supporting SMEs and attend regional events
  • Engaging with local councils and political representatives
  • Shadowing a regional client-facing staff member
  • Gaining insight into entrepreneurship and local economic development

Months 18–24: Assistant Client-Facing Officer role

Step into a more autonomous role and develop the core skills of a Client-Facing Officer:

  • Build trusted client relationships
  • Analyse business plans and financials
  • Manage projects and events
  • Support export and trade initiatives
  • Collaborate across teams and departments
  • Use data and systems to track impact

Learning and development

  • Expert-led training modules
  • Mentoring and coaching from experienced Client Executives
  • Real-world exposure to our client activity
  • Opportunities to build networks across the organisation
  • Continuous development in communication, analysis and leadership

Social highlights

  • Reverse Mentoring Mixer – Share your insights with senior leaders in a relaxed, open setting
  • Outdoor Team Challenge – Take part in a fun day of off-site team building
  • Pizza & Plan Lunch – Collaborate with your cohort over lunch to shape your Year 1 project
  • Wellbeing Workshop – Build resilience and mental strength through interactive activities
  • Graduate Showcase– Present your journey, celebrate achievements and receive recognition

How to apply to Invest NI's Graduate Gateway programme

The programme opens for applications in February 2026, with an expected started date of September 2026. 

Meet us at upcoming careers fairs at Ulster University and and Queens University Belfast to find out more about the Graduate Gateway Programme. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for the Graduate Gateway programme?

Final-year students or recent graduates from any discipline are welcome to apply. We’re looking for individuals who are curious, motivated, and eager to contribute to Invest NI’s mission.

Is the programme paid?

Yes. Graduates will receive a competitive salary and benefits package throughout the two-year programme

When does the programme start

The programme opens for applications in February 2026, with an expected started date of September 2026.

Will I be assigned a mentor or coach?

Yes. Each graduate is matched with a mentor and a certified coach to support their personal and professional development throughout the programme

Where will I be based?

Graduates will be placed across various Invest NI departments and will have opportunities for regional placements. Office-based learning is encouraged to maximise collaboration and exposure.

Will I manage my own client portfolio?

No. Graduates will not be assigned their own client portfolios. Instead, they will shadow and support experienced Client Executives and Managers, contributing to meaningful project work.

What kind of training will I receive?

Training includes:

  • Public sector strategy
  • Organisational systems and client services
  • Communication and analytical skills
  • Excel and business case writing
  • Project management
  • Interview and CV preparation (Year 2)

How do I apply?

Applications will open in February 2026. You should check back for updates closer to the launch date.