Early Careers & Apprenticeship Program Lead

Arriva Group; Thurmaston; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Arriva Group is seeking an experienced Early Careers & Apprenticeship Manager to lead the development, delivery and performance of early careers programmes across Arriva UK Bus operations.

The role focuses on building sustainable talent pipelines, coordinating graduate, internship and placement initiatives, and maximizing apprenticeship levy investment to attract, develop and retain future talent across the business. Regular national travel is expected.

Qualifications

• Experience managing apprenticeship programmes in operational or engineering environments.
• Knowledge of apprenticeship funding, levy management and standards.
• Strong stakeholder management and data-driven reporting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the Operations Early Careers strategy aligned to workforce planning.
• Lead apprenticeship pathways across operations, engineering and business support functions.
• Manage end-to-end apprenticeship lifecycle including recruitment and onboarding.
• Coach line managers and mentors to maximise apprentice progression and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with funding rules, standards and governance processes.
• Maximise apprenticeship levy investment and ROI.

Job description

Arriva Group is seeking an experienced Early Careers & Apprenticeship Manager to lead the development, delivery and performance of early careers programmes across Arriva UK Bus operations.

The role focuses on building sustainable talent pipelines, coordinating graduate, internship and placement initiatives, and maximizing apprenticeship levy investment to attract, develop and retain future talent across the business. Regular national travel is expected.