The importance of attracting returning talent to Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland (NI) is increasingly recognised as a hub for innovation and growth, but to maintain its competitive edge, businesses must attract skilled professionals who bring fresh perspectives. One untapped resource is returners – individuals (or their partners) who have gained international or non-NI experience and are now looking to return. These returners offer immense value to NI-based businesses, driving innovation, change, and new standards. 

Historically, NI has suffered from a ‘brain drain’ with many students choosing to study in GB or Ireland, never to return.  This emigration was often associated with a perceived lack of career opportunities and lower salaries than London and Dublin.  Recent data shows that almost 30% of school leavers choose to study outside of NI, although with the increasing cost of living and students being more cautious about their student loans that figure is likely to be falling.   

NI has some significant advantages in comparison to the rest of the UK & Ireland.  There are several growth industries (Tech & Cyber, Financial Services & FinTech, Life Sciences, Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering and Creative industries), NI’s unique post-Brexit advantage with dual access to UK & EU, the education system and cost of living advantages.   

Returners bring diverse perspectives shaped by their exposure to global markets, industries, and cultures. This wealth of experience fosters creativity and helps businesses approach challenges with fresh solutions. Many returners have worked in fast-paced, large-scale organisations abroad, equipping them with additional skills in innovation, strategy, and cutting-edge technologies that can be transformative for local companies. 

In addition to innovation, returners play a key role in driving change. They often introduce global best practices, elevating operational standards and encouraging businesses to adopt productivity-enhancing tools like AI or automation. Their ability to adapt quickly to evolving markets also creates a sense of agility within teams, inspiring faster decision-making and more dynamic workflows. 

Attracting returners can also help address NI’s skills shortages. These professionals bring expertise that may not be readily available locally, enhancing the talent pool and strengthening businesses across industries. Moreover, their international networks can open doors to new markets, partnerships, and export opportunities, key for NI’s growing focus on global trade. 

Supporting returners signals a commitment to diversity and inclusion. By creating flexible working arrangements or offering support for relocation, businesses can position themselves as forward-thinking employers while boosting employee retention. 

 By encouraging returners back to NI, businesses gain access to a wealth of knowledge and experience that drives innovation and growth, helping NI thrive on the global stage.