Priestley's host University of Bradford's next business stars

Three teams of international students have completed short ‘entrepreneurial consultancy’ projects for Priestley’s throughout July as part of their 15-month MSc in Applied Management and Entrepreneurship.

James Priestley, director of the Bradford and Leeds-based business, joined branch managers, Andy Binns and Sam Tetley, to brief the eleven students and work with them at every stage of the challenge.

The students were tasked with creating proposals for:

• identifying growth areas for Priestley’s, with a focus on the sales side of the business
• exploring new lettings opportunities for the Bradford lettings branch, situated opposite the university
• improving Priestley’s efficiency when managing landlord enquiries.

A presentation morning was held at the Priestley’s Leeds office, on Tuesday 24 July, where each team presented its ideas to the company and lecturers from the School of Management.

James Priestley, director of Priestley’s, said: “We are strong advocates of education and training, employing apprentices and graduates from the local area. It was fantastic to be able to work closely with the University of Bradford on this dynamic project.

“We were all thrilled with the high standard of work on show. The students brought their A game to the challenge, showcasing the incredible business talent Bradford is fostering. Well done to all involved.”

Prof. Vishanth Weerakkody, Associate Deanat the Faculty of Management and Law, added: “Entrepreneurship is a central theme in the School of Management. This joint project between Priestley’s and students and staff at the School of Management is a wonderful opportunity to develop entrepreneurial talent that can contribute to our local economies. I would like to thank the management team at Priestley’s and expert staff at the School of Management for this successful collaboration”.

James Priestley champions community engagement and education, having recently delivered a guest lecture to students at the University of Bradford on how to start and sustain a successful business.

Formally known as Priestley Lettings, established in 2010, Priestley’s launched in 2018 as an integrated sales and lettings agency for the West Yorkshire student and professional property markets.

The University of Bradford’s School of Management holds the coveted ‘Triple Crown’ of accreditations and has been an international leader in business education, research and knowledge transfer for more than 50 years.