About First Bus:

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

At First Bus, we’re on an exciting transformation journey, and our Transformation and Strategy Graduate Programme puts you at the heart of that change.

You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to strategic decisions, influence the future direction of our business and help us identify new opportunities for growth. You’ll gain insight into how we develop our business, support our local operating companies and deliver initiatives that drive organisational change and improvement.

Your work could involve contributing to national transformation projects, supporting strategic initiatives or working more closely with teams at one of our depots. No two days will be the same, so you’ll need to be adaptable, curious and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

The programme offers exposure to different parts of the organisation, so flexibility around location and a willingness to travel frequently are essential.

How will the programme help you develop?

You’ll receive dedicated support throughout the programme from a buddy, a mentor and managers who are invested in your development.

Our development programme will help you build the skills, knowledge and experience needed to deliver successful change and progress your career. This will include:

• Four two-day graduate learning events, helping you develop your professional skills and build relationships with fellow graduates.
• Regular learning sessions with subject matter experts, broadening your understanding of our business, strategy and the public transport industry.
• Study support towards a PRINCE2 qualification, strengthening your project management knowledge and skills.

At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a role within our central Transformation team as a Transformation Specialist, continuing to support the delivery of strategic priorities and business improvement.

About you

We’re looking for analytical, adaptable and forward-thinking individuals who are excited by change and want to help shape the future of First Bus. You’ll need:

• A degree in any discipline.
• A 2:1 or above. The required graduation year and eligibility criteria will be confirmed for the current recruitment campaign.
• Strong strategic thinking skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Confidence in working with data, analysis and evidence to inform decisions.
• Excellent communication, influencing and interpersonal skills.
• Resilience and a positive approach to learning and development.
• The right to work in the UK.
• Previous work experience is desirable but not essential.

Application process

Our recruitment process is designed to help us understand your strengths, potential and suitability for the programme.

• Online assessment – You’ll complete an online assessment through Arctic Shores, using interactive, game-based exercises to help us understand your behavioural strengths and potential.
• Microsoft Teams video interview – You’ll be invited to a video interview via Microsoft Teams, where we’ll learn more about your motivation for joining First Bus, your skills and your interest in the programme.
• Assessment centre – You’ll take part in an assessment centre, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths, problem-solving skills and potential to succeed on the programme. A final-stage interview may also follow the assessment centre.

Salary - competitive

The closing date for applications is Friday 27 November. Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than advertised should we receive a high volume of applications

Rewards

Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• Up to 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares

Equal Opportunities

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.