Tech partnership aims to power future workforce

A North East-founded international software firm is expanding its commitment to regional talent through a new university partnership focused on artificial intelligence and skills development.

Sage has partnered with Durham University to launch a new collaboration focused on learning, research and career pathways, with the initiative unveiled at its Cobalt offices in Newcastle.

Bosses say the partnership aims to equip more people with the skills needed as artificial intelligence and digital technologies continue to reshape the workplace.

They add it will bring together academic insight and industry expertise to develop practical learning opportunities aligned with real business needs.

Pieter Bensch, managing director of Sage UK & Ireland, said: “We’re proud of Sage’s roots and we want to help more people build the confidence and experience to shape what comes next. 

“This partnership with Durham University is another step in Sage’s long-term commitment to the North East and a practical move in helping people gain the skills the region needs. 

“By working closely with universities, we can support students and educators with real-world insight and help the region grow the next generation of talent.” 

The move builds on Sage’s wider commitment to the North East, strengthening existing partnerships with universities including Newcastle, Northumbria, Teesside and Sunderland to develop in-demand skills and create clearer pathways into employment.

Together, Sage and Durham University will also explore the future of responsible and trusted AI in finance and accounting, while supporting the growth of the region’s talent pipeline.

The initiative aligns with the North East’s emergence as an AI Growth Zone, with a focus on translating innovation into jobs, skills and sustained economic growth.

Professor Amir Michael, deputy executive dean (Durham Edge – Executive and Professional Education) at Durham University, added: “We are very pleased with our partnership with Sage and looking forward to a fruitful and constructive collaboration. 

“The collaboration will provide strong applied research capacity collaborating with our newly developed Business AI and Analytics Centre (BAIAS). 

“Durham Edge, our Executive and Professional Education hub, will be working with Sage to develop a series of CPD and professional training courses offered to develop contemporary and future accounting technology and analytics skills to managers and senior executives.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.