Early Careers Manager

CHM; West Midlands Combined Authority; On-site; GBP 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading housing association is seeking an Early Careers Manager to shape and lead an innovative early careers strategy. This role involves developing impactful programmes that enhance social mobility and create pathways into the housing sector, supported by a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Supportive environment

Competitive rewards

Opportunities for growth

Qualifications

• Significant experience designing and delivering early careers pathways.
• Deep knowledge of the UK apprenticeship system and government policy.
• Proven track record of influencing internal stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of the early careers strategy.
• Create structured graduate programmes and expand apprenticeship opportunities.
• Forge partnerships with colleges and training providers.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Partnership Building

Influencing Stakeholders

Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy

Education

Level 5 Learning & Development Qualification

Coaching and Mentoring Qualification

Job description

Be the driving force behind the next generation of talent at this housing association.

Early Careers Manager
Office Base: Birmingham, B15
Salary:£57,298 per annum
Hours:Full-Time, 35 per week
Contract:Permanent

This organisation is seeking an ambitious and passionate Early Careers Manager to shape and lead a future-focused early careers strategy. This is a unique opportunity to build high-impact programmes that open doors for people from all walks of life, create clear routes into the housing sector, and strengthen the talent pipeline that supports the organisation's long-term success.

What you'll be doing:

Reporting to the Head of Learning & Development, you will lead the design, delivery, and growth of the organisation's early careers offer – from apprenticeships and internships to T-Level placements and the brand-new graduate programme:

• Develop and implement a forward-thinking early careers strategy aligned with the corporate plan ‘Tenants at Heart' and workforce needs.
• Lead the creation of a structured graduate programme – from recruitment and induction through to rotations and development support.
• Build and expand high-quality apprenticeship opportunities across both trade and professional roles.
• Forge partnerships with colleges, universities, and training providers to enable internships, T-Level placements, and meaningful work experience.
• Act as the organisation's subject matter expert on apprenticeships, employability, and early talent trends.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across all programmes, and ensure that the organisation's early talent offer supports social mobility.
• Engage stakeholders across the business to identify opportunities, plan career pathways, and support those in early careers roles to thrive.

What they are looking for:

They seek someone who is more than just a programme manager – they need a strategist, builder, and advocate. Your application should highlight:

• A Level 5 Learning & Development and/or Coaching and Mentoring Qualification.
• Significant experience designing and delivering early careers pathways (e.g., apprenticeships, internships, graduate schemes).
• Deep knowledge of the UK apprenticeship system, levy funding, and government policy on technical education.
• Experience building partnerships with education and training providers.
• A proven track record of influencing internal stakeholders and embedding new programmes in complex environments.
• A strong commitment to social impact, inclusion, and developing diverse future talent.

About the Employer

This housing association is one team, working together for their tenants; a large and ambitious organisation providing more people an affordable place to call home. They welcome people from all walks of life, at every career stage. They expect a lot from their people but also offer a supportive environment, competitive rewards, and opportunities for growth. Whether you want to develop your career here or leverage your experience elsewhere, they are committed to developing your potential.

Closing Date: 5 June 2025

Interested?

Please click 'Apply' and follow the job board process. You will receive an email from CHM Recruit with further application instructions. Note that uploading a CV at this stage is not required.

The organisation is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.

No agencies please.