From placement to partnership: Why employers trust RGU talent
Monday 29 June 2026
For Darren Cadger, founder of Aberdeen-based Arch 35 Marketing, the value of RGU’s work-integrated learning model isn’t theoretical - it’s personal.
A graduate of RGU’s International Business Management course, Darren credits his own career trajectory to the real-world experience he gained during his studies. A short placement led to a full-time role as a business analyst, where he would go on to develop the idea that became Arch 35 Marketing.
Today, Darren is paying that experience forward - welcoming RGU students into his growing business and seeing first-hand the impact of career-focused education.
“I’m passionate about giving students real-world experience, just like I had,” he explains.
Work-ready graduates from day one
RGU’s work-integrated approach ensures students graduate with more than a degree - they bring practical experience, commercial awareness and the confidence to contribute from day one.
At Arch 35, recent MSc International Marketing students have taken on live projects within a fast-paced business environment, building skills that translate directly into employment. For employers, this means access to talent that is already aligned to industry needs.
Building confidence - and careers
As graduation approaches, stories like Darren’s offer a powerful message to students stepping into the workforce: your experience is valuable, and your career is already underway.
RGU graduates are not only leaving with academic knowledge, but with proven, real-world capability - a key reason the University continues to be recognised for outstanding graduate outcomes.
A proven pipeline of talent
Employers across Scotland and the UK are increasingly turning to RGU as a trusted source of work-ready graduates. With strong links to industry and a focus on employability, the University is helping organisations build the skilled workforce they need to grow.
Darren’s journey, from student to employer, is a clear endorsement of the model in action.
Connect with RGU talent
If you’re looking to bring fresh thinking, practical skills and ambition into your organisation, now is the time to connect.
Discover how you can work with RGU’s Employability Team and access Scotland’s most career-ready graduates.