Operations Management Graduate
FirstGroupExpected closing date: Friday, 27 November 2026
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Key Takeaways
- Two-year Operations Management Graduate Programme in Bristol.
- Develop leadership skills, gain operational experience, and study for a Transport Manager CPC.
- Requires a 2:2 degree or above in any discipline, achieved in 2025 or 2026, and a full UK driving licence.
- Applications close Friday 27 November.
About the Role
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.
The Programme
This is a two-year Operations Management Graduate Programme where you’ll learn how to run our depots, lead our people and make a positive impact on the local communities we serve.
Development
- Leadership Skills: Gain hands-on operational experience and take on real responsibility.
- Broad Experience: Work within one operating business, with a six-month rotation in a different location to experience the breadth of the organisation.
- Support: Receive a buddy, a mentor, and dedicated managers.
- Managerial Training: Includes the New Manager Programme, four graduate learning events, regular learning sessions with subject matter experts, and study support for your Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
- Operational Understanding: Opportunity to gain your Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driving licence and spend time in customer-facing service roles.
At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a first-line management role, with a clear development pathway towards becoming an Operations Manager.
About You
We’re looking for people who are enthusiastic about leadership, enjoy solving problems and want to make a difference. You’ll need:
- A degree in any discipline, with a 2:2 or above, 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 through Arctic Shores.
- Microsoft Teams video interview: To learn more about your motivation, skills, and interest.
- Assessment centre: To demonstrate your strengths, problem-solving skills, and potential. A final-stage interview may follow.
Rewards
- Health & Wellbeing: Simply Health & Smart Health (cashback on optical & dental, virtual GP, mental health support, nutrition & fitness advice), EAP (24/7 mental health support).
- Financial Wellbeing: Discount platform for high street brands and supermarkets.
- Travel: Discounted train travel for you and your family (after 6 months service), free bus pass.
- Other Benefits: Cycle to work scheme, up to 25 days holiday + bank holidays, pension scheme, chance to buy discounted First Group shares.