3rd November 2025
SIB Economics Intern Programme 2025
The programme is designed to support the professional development of recent economics graduates, offering them skills, experience, and connections. They gain a unique insight into the Northern Ireland public sector, with a particular focus on infrastructure planning and delivery.
In 2025, SIB was delighted to welcome three interns – Bronagh Cassidy, Peter Sparks and Benjamin Smyth. As the 2025 programme finishes, we thank them for their strong commitment and excellent contribution during their internship. We wish them every success in the next stage of their careers and studies.
Bronagh Cassidy
Bronagh Cassidy, an Ulster University Economics graduate, joined SIB as an Economic Intern to apply her economics training to a professional role.
She worked with the Investment Strategy (ISNI) team, focusing on a review of economic infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Bronagh really enjoyed her experience in SIB, as it gave her a brilliant insight into the development of infrastructure in Northern Ireland and the work of a non-departmental government body. She especially enjoyed working alongside Dr. Johann Gallagher, the Head of Research, and gained invaluable research expertise and skills. Bronagh would recommend the experience to anyone hoping to gain an understanding of the Northern Irish public sector and infrastructure development.
Following her internship, Bronagh took up a role as a Research Analyst in Savills Ireland.
Peter Sparks
Peter Sparks, a Queen’s University Belfast Economics graduate, joined SIB as an Economic Intern to gain professional experience before further study.
He worked with the Investment Strategy (ISNI) team, focusing on infrastructure policy research and quantitative analysis. Peter found the SIB environment to be welcoming and supportive, with staff eager to share their expertise and offer learning opportunities. A highlight of Peter’s experience was visiting the new Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) Learning and Development College, a major project delivered with SIB’s involvement. He advises future interns to take advantage of every opportunity to participate in meetings and events, as these experiences are invaluable for learning.
Following his internship, Peter started a Masters in Economics at the Vienna University of Economics and Business.
Benjamin Smyth
Benjamin Smyth, a Business Economics graduate from Ulster University, participated in the SIB internship to further develop the analytical and communication skills gained during his studies.
During his internship, Benjamin was part of the Investment Strategy (ISNI) team. He quickly gained an understanding of the importance of strategic planning for infrastructure in Northern Ireland and the role SIB plays in delivering long-term benefits for society. He valued the opportunity to learn from sector experts across SIB and to attend roundtable discussions and events. Benjamin credits the internship with enhancing his career development and is grateful for the skills and experience gained.
Following his internship, Benjamin commenced a graduate scheme in pensions management.
