People Graduate
FirstGroupExpected closing date: Friday, 27 November 2026
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Key Takeaways
- Two-year People Graduate Programme with four rotations in central People functions.
- Opportunity to work towards a CIPD Level 5 qualification.
- Requires a 2:2 degree or above (achieved in 2025 or 2026) and a full UK driving licence.
- Applications close on Friday 27th November.
About the Role
About First Bus
First Bus is one of the UK’s largest public transport operators, with 18,000 colleagues working across a diverse range of roles and business areas. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient, and are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
The People Graduate Programme
This is a two-year programme where you’ll get involved from day one, developing an understanding of how our People teams operate at a local business unit level and learning the fundamentals of effective people management.
You’ll also spend time with our central People teams, discovering how our people processes, policies and services come together to shape the overall colleague experience.
Throughout the programme, you’ll gain exposure to a range of specialist areas, including Learning and Development, Talent Acquisition, Employee Relations, Internal Communications and more.
Rotations
Your programme will consist of four rotations across our central People functions. One rotation will be based in Leeds within our People Advisory Services team, providing a strong grounding in HR knowledge, employee relations and people practices. The remaining rotations will be delivered remotely, with travel as required to support your role. These could include Learning and Development, Talent Acquisition, People Policy, Internal Communications and HR Projects.
Development
- Four two-day graduate learning events.
- Regular learning sessions with subject matter experts.
- The opportunity to work towards a CIPD Level 5 qualification, with study support provided.
- Dedicated support from a buddy, a mentor and managers.
At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a People role, either within one of our local business units or within a central team.
About You
We’re looking for people who are passionate about supporting others, developing talent and helping create a positive colleague experience. You’ll need:
- A degree in HR or Business is preferred, although other disciplines may be considered.
- A 2:2 or above, achieved in 2025 or 2026.
- A full UK driving licence.
- A passion for developing and supporting people.
- 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 (Arctic Shores).
- Microsoft Teams video interview.
- Assessment centre, potentially followed by a final-stage interview.
Rewards
- Simply Health & Smart Health (cash back benefits, virtual GP, 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 chance to buy discounted First Group shares.