Event to help employers attract and retain Gen Z and underrepresented talent
Invest Northern Ireland event to help employers meet the challenges of demographic shifts, evolving employee expectations, and increased competition for talent.
The world of work is changing. Demographic shifts, evolving employee expectations, skills shortages, and increasing competition for talent are encouraging employers to think differently about how they attract, develop, and retain their workforce.
Invest NI is hosting an interactive employer event exploring how organisations can take a people-centred approach to workforce planning while preparing for future challenges and opportunities.
Through contributions from Invest NI, workforce consultant Orla Canney, NOW Group and employers already implementing inclusive workforce practices, the event will explore what today's workforce increasingly values, the expectations of Gen Z employees and jobseekers, and how organisations can create environments where a broader range of talent can thrive.
Event details
Date: Tuesday 6 October 2026
Time: 9:30am to 1pm
Venue: Invest NI Headquarters, Belfast
Cost: Free
Why attend this event?
Attendees will gain practical insights into how recruitment, onboarding, and retention practices can be adapted to engage younger workers better, remove barriers for neurodivergent individuals and other underrepresented talent groups, and support long-term workforce sustainability. You will:
- gain insight into key workforce trends shaping the future labour market
- understand the changing expectations of Gen Z and what these mean for employers
- explore practical ways to attract, recruit, and retain neurodivergent and other underrepresented talent
- learn how inclusive recruitment and onboarding practices can improve access to wider talent pools
- hear real-world examples from employers who have successfully adapted their approach
- leave with practical actions to strengthen attraction, retention, and workforce resilience
Whether you are currently experiencing recruitment challenges or planning for future workforce needs, this session will provide practical insights into engaging the next generation of workers, creating more inclusive workplaces, and accessing talent that may be overlooked through traditional recruitment approaches.
Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the changing workforce landscape and practical actions to help attract, support and retain a wider range of talent.
Register to attend
Places are limited, and advance registration is required. To reserve your place, please email claire.tormey@investni.com.
First published 11 September 2026