Who are we?
Universum is the most recognised Employer Branding specialist in the world. Part of the StepStone Group and Axel Springer family, our diverse workforce is physically present in over 20 countries. We ensure employers around the world achieve their goals through data-driven Employer Branding. Consequently, this enables them to engage the talent they need to succeed.
On an annual basis Universum works with over 2000 universities, alumni groups, and professional organizations across 50 markets. And so, we gather insights from students and professionals in order to advise employers on how to attract talent that fits their culture and purpose.
For over 30 years now, Universum has been the trusted partner of many of the world’s best-known employers. As a result, our data, insights and guidance have shaped Employer Branding and assisted companies from around the globe in their efforts to attract, recruit and retain the right talent.
The history of Universum
Universum was founded in 1988 in Stockholm, Sweden by aspiring MBA student, Lars-Henrik Friis Molin. It started as a class project to better improve the communication between students and the companies that wanted to recruit them.
The results of the very first survey were enlightening enough to be published by national press. After that, numerous employers reached out to inquire whether additional questions could be asked in future surveys. And so, Universum was born!
ESOMAR
Universum is a corporate member of ESOMAR, the global voice of data, research and insights community. As a result, our ESOMAR membership denotes that we abide by ESOMAR code of conduct.
Vision
We shape Employer Branding.
As an essential and trusted partner for employers, we are the most recognized Employer Branding specialist in the top 50 economies of the world.
Mission
We ensure employers around the world achieve their goals through data-driven Employer Branding, enabling them to engage the talent they need to succeed.
Analytics
We believe brand love is built on intimate understanding
This is why everything we do is founded on robust data, expert analysis, highly targeted and actionable insights. For 31 years, we have invested in building the largest career preference data set in the world. Each year the Universum Ideal Employers Survey is completed by millions of students, graduates, and professionals around the world. Bigger, better data gives our client partners a distinct advantage in finding the most effective ways to win the attention and admiration of their target talent.
Activation
We believe stories are more powerful than slogans
This is why we help companies and organizations engage the pride and advocacy of their people to bring their stories to life. Universum is not a recruitment advertising agency. We are a highly social, story-led, data-driven, results-focused employer brand marketing agency. We prioritize creative agility, high authenticity and target relevance over the big, mass-market, advertising ‘Idea’. If you’re looking for the revolution, find it here.
Advisory
We believe talent is attracted by strong purpose and unique character
This is why we strive to help companies define and articulate the qualities that make them special. We have helped many of the world’s leading employers develop the value propositions that underpin their employer brand strategies. Our unique research capabilities and extensive experience ensure our client partners always receive world-class advice and the most attractive, credible, distinctive and sustainable solutions.
Academy
We believe the most successful companies love to learn
This is why we constantly bring people together to share winning practices and identify the best of what’s new and next. Whether it’s through our global Employer Branding Academy, our Advisory Boards, EB NOW Best Practice Survey or regular white papers, webinars and events Universum loves to get people together to share and learn from each other.
