The Consultancy Project module brought together students from Sheffield Business School's undergraduate programmes to work directly with client organisations on critical business issues. The 20 participating companies spanned sectors including manufacturing, financial services, consumer goods, non-profits and more. Those companies included Morrisons, HSBC, Iceland Foods, Lindt, as well as other local SMEs and charities.
Sheffield Business School hosted the event at their Langsett building, part of the flagship Howard Street city campus development, with the event spanning across eight classrooms simultaneously, to accommodate the 400+ students involved.
Dr Michael Benson, Associate Head, Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Through the Consultancy Project module, students develop vital employability skills by working directly with industry clients on real-world business challenges. These projects deliver tangible value to organisations, equipping them with fresh insights and innovative solutions that can drive future economies and strengthen business performance.
“The module also creates meaningful opportunities for students to build professional networks, both with their peers and with industry partners, supporting discussions around future career pathways and employment opportunities. We collaborate with a diverse range of organisations, including global corporations such as HSBC and Morrisons, alongside local Sheffield SMEs and charities, ensuring our students gain broad and impactful experience.”
One of the student groups presented strategic recommendations focused on Morrisons’ ‘Market Street’ pizza and deli counters. As part of the project, students visited stores and production sites and engaged directly with Morrisons representatives to discuss their research and presentation insights.
One of these students was Maddie Winfield-Bennett, who is in the final-year of the BA Business Studies course at Sheffield Hallam.
Maddie said: “As part of my course, I had the opportunity to present to clients at Morrisons, gaining valuable insight into how academic learning translates into real business practice. Working collaboratively with my team, I helped develop a research‑led strategic proposal addressing current industry challenges, which we presented to senior professionals. The experience strengthened my communication, teamwork and adaptability, and provided constructive feedback that deepened my understanding of professional standards.”
Megan Moore, Own Brand Manager, Morrisons, said: “Working alongside Sheffield Hallam university on their business consultancy project has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Supporting young people as they develop their skills, confidence and ambitions has been inspiring and energising. The level of talent, creativity and fresh perspective the students have brought is impressive. It’s been a privilege to contribute to their journey while also strengthening our customer proposition at Morrisons. This collaboration has been a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when education and industry come together.”
The Level 6 Consultancy Project module is a strong example of Sheffield Hallam University’s Career Promise in action, combining practical, real-world learning with meaningful employer connections. It gives students valuable experience working on live projects while building the analytical, problem-solving and presentation skills valued by businesses across all sectors.
