Graduate Area General Manager - South East

Heidelberg Materials UK; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading building materials company in the UK is offering a Graduate Programme designed for ambitious individuals aiming for leadership roles. The programme includes pathways such as Operational Site Manager, Sales Management Trainee, and Technical Manager. Participants will undergo a 12-month hands-on experience while receiving mentorship. The role offers a competitive salary and benefits including 27 days holiday and opportunities for professional development. If you're looking to grow in a dynamic environment, consider applying for this exciting opportunity.

Benefits

Generous pension

Life assurance

Flexible working options

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Graduates in relevant fields with a minimum of a 2:1 degree.
• Experience in engineering or business is advantageous.
• Master’s degree or relevant work experience is considered.

Responsibilities

• Develop operational and health & safety skills aligned with ‘Zero Harm’ goal.
• Deliver top-tier customer service and commercial performance.
• Build technical leadership capabilities across various functions.

Skills

Operational management skills

Customer service skills

Technical leadership skills

Sales reporting

Education

Degree in engineering, business, environmental sciences, or STEM subjects with a 2:1

Job description

Graduate Opportunities at Heidelberg Materials UK

At Heidelberg Materials UK, we’re not just supplying heavy building materials we’re driving the transformation of the construction industry. Through cutting‑edge innovation, a deep commitment to sustainability, and a focus on digital advancement, we’re shaping a smarter, greener future.

Join us on our graduate programme as we continue to push boundaries and create lasting impact across the built environment.

Graduate Programme – Area General Manager - £30 937pa (£33 045pa London Salary only)

We’re recruiting for three exciting graduate pathways designed to fast‑track your development into leadership roles.

• Operational Site Manager
• Sales Management Trainee
• Technical Manager

This 12‑month immersive programme offers hands‑on experience, structured development, and a fast‑track into roles with real responsibility. You’ll gain exposure to operations, commercial strategy, and leadership development, preparing you for future roles like Territory Sales Manager, Operational Site Manager, Technical Manager and ultimately Area General Manager.

Structured Career Pathway

At Heidelberg Materials UK, we don’t just offer jobs we build long‑term careers. From day one, you’ll follow a clear and structured development pathway, with defined milestones to help you grow your skills and progress confidently. You’ll be supported every step of the way by experienced mentors, dedicated managers, and a network of peers who are invested in your success.

Role Overviews

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 – Grow Your Career with Flexibility

We’re currently recruiting across the Bristol, Midlands, and Southeast regions, regional mobility is a key part of the experience. You’ll have the opportunity to move within your area to gain valuable exposure, broaden your skillset, and work across different sites.

We’re committed to being transparent about location expectations throughout the recruitment process, so you’ll always know what to expect.

Who Should Apply?

• Graduates in engineering, business, environmental sciences, or STEM subjects with a 2:1
• Internal candidates seeking career advancement
• Individuals with master’s degrees or relevant work experience—your programme will be tailored to your background

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

Ready to Build Your Future with Us?

At Heidelberg Materials UK, we’re not just building materials, we’re building careers, communities, and a more sustainable future. If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, make an impact, and be part of something bigger, now’s the time to apply.

Rewards & Benefits

• Armed Forces Covenant (Gold) | Disability Confident | 5% Club (Platinum) | Mates in Mind | Clear Assured | STEM Ambassador | MPQC Member
• Competitive Package: Salary, bonus incentives, generous pension, and life assurance
• Work‑Life Balance: 27 days holiday (plus bank holidays), agile/flexible working, holiday purchase, and sabbatical options
• Family‑Friendly Policies: Enhanced support for maternity, paternity, adoption, IVF, neonatal care, and menopause
• Inclusive Culture: Paid volunteering day and active employee communities (LGBTQ+, Women in STEM, Armed Forces, and more)
• Wellbeing & Development: Employee Assistance Programme, retail discounts, and continuous learning opportunities