A Global Benchmark for Employability: IE University’s Talent and Careers

In a rapidly evolving job market, the ability to adapt, innovate, and lead has never been more critical. Employers across the globe are looking for resilient graduates who are equipped with the skills to produce necessary results for companies efficiently. IE University has earned a sterling reputation among the world’s recruiters who find IE alumni uniquely employable. 

In fact, the university was recognized in the 2025 Global Employability University Ranking by Times Higher Education as one of the world’s top universities when it comes to employability for its graduates. IE secured the #18 spot worldwide in employability and also stands as the #1 university in Spain and 6th in Europe, based on evaluations from global employers.

What makes this achievement particularly significant is the methodology of the ranking: it is employers, not alumni, students, or the university itself, who determine the results. The message is clear—employers themselves say that IE University produces graduates who excel in the workforce. Behind this success lies the pivotal work of the Talent & Careers department, which drives IE’s mission to prepare students for the challenges of the modern professional world.

The success of IE graduates stems from the Talent & Careers department’s ability to forge deep, meaningful partnerships with global employers while tailoring support to each student’s unique strengths, according to Zayne Imam, Executive Director of Talent & Careers.

“We partner with employers to source the best talent matched to their needs and customize meaningful collaborations that truly move the needle,” said Imam.

A Bespoke Approach to Employability

IE’s Talent & Careers team emphasizes tailoring students’ careers and goals to meet industry demands.

“The IE-L’Oréal Academy is a joint initiative to prepare students for leadership roles, ensuring they create immediate value when they join L’Oréal,” explained Imam.

IE has a track record of working with industry leaders to ensure graduates are not only academically excellent but also fully prepared to contribute from day one. In November, the Talent & Careers team hosted the Employer Forum in Dubai, where relationships with leading companies in the Middle East were cultivated to create opportunities and facilitate networking and growth between IE and the region.

In a conversation with Imam, Abbie Abbott, Head of HR and Corporate Affairs at SIA Partners, emphasized the importance of fostering emotional intelligence and communication skills in its students. 

“I think the number one quality that recent graduates need to demonstrate is high emotional intelligence, as well as self-awareness,” Abbott said.

Abbot further underscored the capability of navigating interpersonal relationships as a key factor that allows recent graduates such as those from IE to succeed in the early stages of their careers.

Shaping Leaders for a Global Workforce

Employers consistently highlight the leadership traits and adaptability of IE students, noting how well they navigate complex environments. According to recruiters, IE Talent & Careers plays a key role in fostering these qualities by connecting students with transformative opportunities.

Anthony Duda, European Talent Acquisition Manager at Signify, praises IE’s interdisciplinary curriculum and emphasis on sustainability.

“IE’s use of technology and focus on sustainability ensure its graduates are equipped to tackle modern business challenges,” said Duda. “The leadership and real-world focus instilled in its students make them invaluable contributors from the start.”

This blend of technical expertise and leadership qualities makes IE graduates particularly adaptable in industries undergoing rapid transformation.

Rodrigo Albero, from Goldman Sachs’ FICC & Equities, Global Banking & Markets division, highlighted the entrepreneurial mindset cultivated at IE.

“The ability to synthesize complex matters, thrive in competitive environments, and balance emotional intelligence with strategic thinking is what makes IE graduates stand out. They combine quantifiable and intangible skills to adapt and excel.”

Agility in Action

IE Talent & Careers is characterised by its agility. By anticipating market trends and engaging with employers as true partners, the department ensures that students are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Megan Prosser, Senior Manager at Robert Walters, highlights the importance of resilience, bravery, and an energetic attitude that employers seek in the modern world – specifically the UAE.

“Employers want candidates who can hit the ground running,” Prosser explained. “We mean someone who already knows how to drive the car, not a learning driver. You know, someone who can be like, ok, I haven't driven this car before, but it looks kind of the same. I can figure it out.”

Hands-on learning is a key differentiator of IE’s education. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to give students practical experience to excel in the workplace.

“I think the amazing thing about Talent & Careers is the practical application of content that you're teaching the students in real world experiences,” Nahal Yousefian, former VP of HR at Netflix, said at Talent & Careers’ IENYC Employers Forum in November. “I think the fact that IE approaches their entire learning strategy through the lens of practical application is critical.”

This focus on immediate impact resonates with employers across industries, ensuring IE graduates are a step ahead of their peers.

Behind IE’s Success

IE University’s Talent & Careers department is the driving force behind the institution’s global reputation for excellence in employability. By combining a bespoke approach to talent development, a focus on leadership and emotional intelligence, and a commitment to agility, the department ensures that IE graduates are not just ready to join the workforce—they are capable of leading it.

Employers have spoken, and their verdict is clear: IE University is redefining what it means to prepare graduates for the future of work.