
Graduate Area General Manager - Concrete
Heidelberg MaterialsExpected closing date: Monday, 21 December 2026
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Key Takeaways
- 12-month immersive graduate programme fast-tracking you into leadership roles.
- Starting salary of nearly £31,000 per year, plus benefits.
- Gain exposure to operations, commercial strategy, and leadership development.
- Requires a 2:1 in engineering, business, environmental sciences, or S.T.E.M subjects, graduating in 2026 or 2027.
- Applications close on 21 December 2026.
About the Role
Heidelberg Materials UK is a leading supplier of construction materials, committed to building a sustainable future and fostering a diverse workforce. We are at the forefront of carbon neutrality and the circular economy in the building materials industry, developing sustainable solutions and leveraging digitalisation.
This 12-month immersive graduate programme is designed to fast-track your development into leadership roles, offering hands-on experience, structured development, and exposure to operations, commercial strategy, and leadership. You will be prepared for future roles such as Territory Sales Manager, Operational Site Manager, Technical Manager, and ultimately Area General Manager.
Structured Career Pathway
We offer long-term career building with a clear development pathway and defined milestones. You will be supported by experienced mentors, dedicated managers, and a peer network.
Graduate Programme Streams
Operational Site Manager
- Develop operational and health & safety skills aligned with our ‘Zero Harm’ goal.
- Support continuous improvement in efficiency, productivity, and compliance.
- Be based at an operational site to build broad expertise.
Sales Management Trainee
- Deliver top-tier customer service and commercial performance.
- Gain experience in sales reporting, competition compliance, and client engagement.
- Prepare to manage your own territory.
Technical Manager
- Build knowledge and leadership capabilities across operations, commercial, finance, and strategy.
- Engage in cross-functional projects and strategic planning.
- Progress toward an Area General Manager role with exposure to senior decision-making.
- Build technical leadership capabilities across product development, quality control, customer support, and sustainability.
- Gain exposure to commercial strategy, operational excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Participate in strategic projects involving laboratory innovation, material optimisation, and customer engagement.
Mobility & Locations
You will have the opportunity to move within your area to gain valuable exposure and broaden your skillset. We are transparent about location expectations.
What We’re Looking For:
- Energetic and Proactive: Ready to make an impact from day one.
- Team-Oriented: Collaborative and ready to contribute to team success.
- Results-Driven: Practical mindset focused on achieving measurable outcomes.
- Adaptable and Curious: Flexible and eager to learn.
Entry Requirements
- Graduated in 2026 or graduating in 2027 with an expected 2:1 in engineering, business, environmental sciences, or S.T.E.M subjects.
- British citizenship or UK settled status.
- Full UK driving licence.
What You’ll Gain
- A structured development pathway with clear progression.
- Exposure to senior leaders and strategic projects.
- A supportive environment focused on mentorship, wellbeing, and growth.
- Opportunities to make a real impact in a rapidly evolving industry.
Benefits
- A great salary: Starting salary of nearly £31,000 a year with a comprehensive benefits package.
- Hands-on learning: Practical experience with industry professionals and real equipment.
- Leadership skills: Deep understanding of the business and honed leadership, technical, and people skills.
- Professional development: Opportunities for continued learning, including workshops, seminars, and networking.
- Sustainability: Contribution to decarbonisation, carbon capture, and recycling initiatives.
- Cutting-edge technology: Skills in operating the latest construction and digital technology.
- Mentoring and support: Dedicated mentorship from a senior manager.
- Networking opportunities: Connections with industry experts at company events and seminars.
- Diversity and inclusion: Valued in an inclusive workplace.
- Social value: Involvement in charitable and community events.
- Career progression: Early advancement and opportunities for personal growth.
Next Steps
- Submit your application: Attach a cover letter and CV.
- Pre-recorded interview and online assessment: If shortlisted, you will complete a video interview and an online assessment.
- Interview and insight day: If successful, you will attend an interview and insight day, including a 10-minute presentation.
Successful candidates will join the Graduate programme beginning in September.