That's Me! Employer Board

Meet our employer board

The That’s Me! Employer Board brings together a cross-sector network of regional employers and policy makers committed to breaking down barriers faced by Global Majority Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs). This collaborative network works across health, education and business, to create lasting, systemic change that improves access to and participation in postgraduate research for underrepresented communities. 

Shared commitments

While universities have a key role to play, equitable access to postgraduate research requires meaningful partnership with industry and policy influencers. By working together, the Board supports Global Majority PGRs in entering career pathways and thriving within them. 

Two PGRS together looking at a laptop

The board aims to:

  • Eliminate structural barriers to postgraduate research study for Global Majority communities.

  • Increase awareness of the value and contributions of Global Majority PGRs. 

  • Advance inclusive recruitment and workforce development practices. 

  • Provide tools to help employers benchmark and improve equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) strategies.

Contributions of the employer board

As part of their ongoing engagement with the That’s Me! initiative, Employer Board members contribute in a variety of ways that reflect their organisational pledges and commitment to long-term change: 

  • Sharing organisational learning and insights to inform equitable recruitment and retention practices across the region
  • Contributing to a better understanding of researcher experience, particularly the barriers and enablers affecting Global Majority postgraduate researchers
  • Supporting the development and uptake of inclusive policies and practices, drawing on real-world examples and strategic priorities
  • Promoting visibility of postgraduate research opportunities within their organisations and through wider professional networks 

These contributions help to create a shared regional framework for inclusive postgraduate research and career progression, while also supporting internal organisational learning and EDI development. 

Board members

We’re proud to be supported by a range of regional organisations across healthcare, education, and business:

Health Partners

  • Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
  • Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
  • University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
  • Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust

Education Partners

  • Arthur Terry Learning Partnership
  • City of Wolverhampton College
  • Greenheart Learning Partnership

Business & Policy Partners

  • Black Country Chamber of Commerce
  • Brandauer and Co Ltd
  • City of Wolverhampton Council
  • West Midlands Combined Authority
  • The Active Wellbeing Society

Want to get involved?

We welcome interest from regional employers who are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in research and workforce development. By partnering with That’s Me!, your organisation can play an active role in shaping more inclusive postgraduate research pathways and benefiting from the talent, insight, and innovation of Global Majority researchers.

There are a range of ways to engage with the initiative, including: 

  • Sign up for the Talent XChange - A networking event connecting regional employers with Global Majority doctoral researchers through short, impactful conversations. 
  • Take part in our Career Series: Beyond the Doctorate - Join a panel, host a session, or share your career journey to help researchers explore life after the doctorate. 
  • Employer Spotlight - Share your organisation’s story through a case study or interview feature, highlighting your commitment to inclusive practice and talent development. 

Whether you’re looking to contribute to events, share your experience, or explore new ways to attract diverse research talent, we’d love to hear from you.

To express interest or learn more, contact the That’s Me! team at thatsme@bcu.ac.uk or kamaira.jones@bcu.ac.uk

Meet our employer engagement officer

Dr Kamaira Jones  
Employer Engagement Officer, That’s Me!

As Employer Engagement Officer, Kami works closely with regional employers to understand their workforce needs and connect them with postgraduate researchers. She supports PGRs in exploring career pathways beyond academia, helping them translate their expertise into real-world impact. Through tailored guidance and events such as career seminars and networking sessions, Kami aims to equip postgraduate researchers with the skills and insight needed for successful transitions into the professional world. 

Kamaira Jones Portrait against lavender