Dec 16, 2025
15th December 2025 – Leading training and skills organisation Apprentify Group has announced the acquisition of The Graduate Guide, a fast-growing community platform that helps ambitious graduates build careers in the startup world.
The partnership will play a pivotal role in connecting start-ups and scale-ups with emerging talent equipped to thrive in dynamic, high-growth environments. These businesses often face challenges in sourcing individuals who can adapt quickly and contribute effectively.
By combining The Graduate Guide’s thriving community with Apprentify Group’s robust infrastructure - spanning talent acquisition, accredited training and ongoing development - the group can deliver an end-to-end solution that links ambitious graduates with innovative organisations. This integrated approach ensures businesses gain the talent they need to scale, whilst graduates access the skills and support required to succeed in fast-paced roles.
Recent reports show a 33% fall in career opportunities for graduates compared to 2024, creating a persistent challenge for job applicants stepping into their first role after university. Founded by UCL graduates Peter Wood and Marlene Leiss to mitigate these issues, The Graduate Guide has built a thriving community of 30,000 graduates, with many going on to land roles at the UK's fastest-growing startups.
Jonathan Fitchew, CEO at Apprentify Group said: "Co-founders Peter and Marlene are a breath of fresh air. They’ve built something truly unique; it’s rare to find young founders who can not only reach high-calibre leaders but also build real relationships with them. They have an incredible instinct for what makes people tick. Paired with Apprentify’s engine and expertise, they’re set up to achieve something remarkable.”
Peter Wood, CEO at The Graduate Guide added: “This acquisition allows us to become everything we set out to be and more. The Graduate Guide will stay true to its purpose: to guide graduates. A place where ambitious students and young professionals, wherever they are in their journey, can find direction through events and upskilling. Becoming part of Apprentify Group allows us to expand our community and break down barriers to entry, whilst ensuring young people are able to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market.”
Wood originally launched The Graduate Guide as a podcast featuring guests from the corporate world, such as BCG, Ipsos and Rolls Royce, and startups, such as Unplugged, Simmer and Steven Bartlett’s Flightstory. It has since partnered with organisations like LinkedIn, Vodafone and NatWest Accelerator.
Apprentify Group, formed of the Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rated Apprentify, Netcom Training, The Juice Academy, Flourish and ioda, has acquired The Graduate Guide as part of its ambitious growth plans, indicative of the business’ ranking as the UK’s 30th fastest-growing company by The Sunday Times in 2025. This latest acquisition reinforces the group’s mission to redefine early-career pathways through a blend of community, employability and upskilling.
With a network spanning thousands of learners and employers, the Apprentify Group continues to elevate careers and fill critical skills gaps across the UK. Any organisation wishing to discuss opportunities with The Graduate Guide or Apprentify should contact Apprentify via their website.
About Apprentify Group
Apprentify Group is a collective of businesses dedicated to shaping the workforce of tomorrow and providing learning opportunities to anyone, regardless of their background.
Its specialist brands - Apprentify, Netcom Training, The Juice Academy, Flourish and Ioda - draw on the collective expertise, insight and infrastructure of the wider business. From digital skills and early career talent to leadership development and cultural transformation, Apprentify's group model enables it to deliver end-to-end capability across every layer of the modern workforce.