Business Insight Programme Marks Third Successful Year, Empowering Over 100 Future Business Leaders
26th Jun 2025
The Business Insights Programme (BIP), created by leading accountancy firm BDO NI in conjunction with Queens Business School, proudly returned in 2025 for its third consecutive year, drawing more than 150 applications from across the region. Designed to nurture the next generation of business talent, the programme brought together 100 students for a multi-day, multi-location experience focused on real-world skills development.
Spanning 3 days and hosted across 3 dynamic locations, including Queens Business School Hub, BDO NI offices and Kingspan Stadium, the BIP provided participants with a unique opportunity to enhance their core competencies in teamwork, critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s fast-paced business environment.
A highlight of this year’s programme was a hands-on case study challenge centred around local start-up Mystery Shirt In a Box. Students, working in teams, were tasked with analysing a series of detailed business reports and formulating strategic growth recommendations. Their final proposals were delivered via video presentations, simulating the kind of remote communication and presentation styles now commonplace in global business settings.
Participants were fortunate to gain insight and feedback from industry leaders throughout the programme. Special guests included the Founder as well as Head of Creative at Mystery Shirt in a Box, Rory McLaughlin and Connor Beattie, alongside a range of distinguished speakers such as Alastair Simpson, Director at Rare Guitars, Nuala Murphy, Diversity Leader, Hugh McCaughey, CEO of Ulster Rugby, Jake Flannery, Jack Murphy and India Daley, Ulster Rugby players and Amy McGuckin, QRadio presenter and social media personality, who shared invaluable perspectives on entrepreneurship, innovation, and career readiness.
“The BIP is all about bridging the gap between education and the working world,” said Laura Jackson, BDO NI Partner & Head of Audit and Honorary Professor at Queens Business School. “By giving students the chance to tackle real business challenges and learn directly from industry professionals, we’re helping them build the confidence and skills they’ll need to thrive in the future.”
As the programme continues to grow in reach and reputation, its core mission remains the same: to offer meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare young people to succeed in their academic and professional journeys.
