Commercial Graduate
FirstGroupExpected closing date: Friday, 27 November 2026
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Key Takeaways
- Two-year Commercial Graduate Programme with First Bus, focusing on customer relations, service management, and commercial decision-making.
- Gain practical experience, professional development, and study support towards a PRINCE2 qualification.
- Requires a 2:1 degree or above (achieved 2025/2026), a full UK driving licence, and the right to work in the UK.
- Competitive salary with comprehensive rewards including health benefits, discounts, and holiday entitlement.
- Applications close on Friday 27 November.
About the Role
About First Bus:
First Bus is a leading UK bus operator committed to delivering sustainable, comfortable, and efficient passenger journeys through innovative technology and environmentally friendly vehicles.
Commercial Graduate Programme
This two-year programme offers the opportunity to develop essential skills and experience in the commercial aspects of the business. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of customer relations, service management, and commercial decision-making to support operational success.
Key Responsibilities & Learning Opportunities:
- Collaborate with colleagues across Commercial, Operations, Finance, Engineering, and People teams to understand inter-departmental functions.
- Gain hands-on experience in Local Bus Businesses, supporting commercial activities.
- Learn to leverage data, performance metrics, and customer insights for problem-solving and continuous improvement.
- Address challenges within the public transport industry, working to enhance service performance and deliver positive customer experiences.
Development Support:
- Receive dedicated support from a buddy, mentor, and managers.
- Participate in four two-day graduate learning events to develop professional skills and network with peers.
- Attend regular learning sessions with subject matter experts to deepen understanding of business strategy and the public transport industry.
- Receive study support towards a PRINCE2 qualification.
- Opportunity to gain a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driving licence and spend time in customer-facing roles to understand operations and the passenger experience.
Upon completion of the two-year programme, graduates are expected to move into a first-line management role, with a clear development pathway towards becoming an Operations Manager.
About You:
We are seeking enthusiastic individuals with a passion for leadership, problem-solving, and making a difference. Essential requirements include:
- A degree (2:1 or above) in any discipline, achieved in 2025 or 2026.
- A full UK driving licence.
- A passion for customer service and delivering a positive passenger experience.
- Excellent communication 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:
- Online assessment: Game-based exercises via Arctic Shores to assess behavioural strengths and potential.
- Microsoft Teams video interview: To discuss motivation, skills, and interest in the programme.
- Assessment centre: To demonstrate strengths, problem-solving skills, and potential. A final-stage interview may follow.
Rewards:
- Simply Health & Smart Health benefits (cashback for optical & dental, virtual GP, mental health support, nutrition & fitness advice).
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for 24/7 mental health support.
- Discount platform for high street brands and supermarkets.
- Discounted train travel for you and your family (after 6 months service).
- Free bus pass.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Up to 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
- Pension scheme and opportunity to buy discounted First Group shares.