Graduate Management Trainee in Professional Services Executive Office 48578 Grade 6

The University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Birmingham is seeking ambitious graduates for their Graduate Management Training Scheme. This full-time role offers the chance to gain invaluable experience across various university services while developing essential leadership skills. Candidates must hold at least a 2.1 degree or equivalent and demonstrate a passion for higher education and problem-solving abilities. A comprehensive benefits package includes 40 days of holiday and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

40 days paid holiday

Occupational sick pay

Pension scheme

Subsidised day nurseries

Qualifications

• Must have a 2.1 in a first degree in any subject.
• Interest in Higher Education issues.
• Strong initiative, resourcefulness, and self-motivation.

Responsibilities

• Participate in rotations across university services.
• Engage in training and development programs.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives of the university.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Excellent communication skills

Resilience

Flexibility

Resourcefulness

Good IT skills

Education

2.1 in first degree or postgraduate qualification

Job description

Position Details

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK

Salary: Full-time starting salary normal range of £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906.

Grade: 6

Contract: Full Time Fixed Term up to September 2028

Closing date: 25th January 2026

Positions available: Up to 5

Our Offer

People are at the heart of what we are and do. The University of Birmingham is proud to have been part of the City of Birmingham and the wider region for over 100 years. We are committed to helping staff develop through the sector‑leading Birmingham Professional programme, which provides all professional services staff with development opportunities.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, foster an inclusive environment, and support a healthy work‑life balance. Flexible working arrangements are available. We offer a generous benefits package including 40 days paid holiday, a day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, a pension scheme, and three high‑quality subsidised day nurseries.

The University is situated in leafy Edgbaston with excellent transport links, a state‑of‑the‑art sports centre, art gallery, museum, and botanical gardens.

Role Summary

The Graduate Management Training Scheme provides ambitious graduates with an entry point to a dynamic and stimulating career in university management and leadership. Trainees will learn necessary skills to run a global university, gain direct experience of a number of university services, and receive tailored training and mentorship.

Main Duties

We are looking for future leaders—intelligent, inquisitive graduates passionate about the University and the city of Birmingham. Responsibilities include:

• Rotating placements across different areas of the University’s Professional Services.
• Participating in training and development programmes.
• Contributing to the university’s key strategic initiatives.
• Demonstrating initiative, flexibility, and self‑motivation.
• Building effective working relationships with diverse colleagues.
• Applying analytical thinking to solve problems beyond traditional solutions.
• Communicating clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• At least a 2.1 in a first degree in any subject (January 2023 to August 2026) or a postgraduate qualification completed in the same period, having previously achieved at least a 2.1 in a first degree.
• Interest in and understanding of Higher Education issues.
• High degree of initiative, resourcefulness, flexibility, and self‑motivation.
• Ability to form effective working relationships with a diverse range of colleagues.
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, including presentation and writing.
• Resilience and adaptability to work effectively in new environments.
• Good IT skills and a standard of numeracy.
• A willingness to learn and embrace opportunities.

To apply, you must be eligible to work in the UK. The role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa.

The Application Process

There are three key stages.

Stage 1: Online Application

Complete a brief online form and upload a one‑document CV and cover letter through the University’s online jobs portal.

Cover letter must answer the following questions (1000 words max):

• What does working in higher education mean to you personally and what impact do you hope to make?
• What is your proudest achievement to date?
• Describe a time when you showed initiative.

All written content must be your own work; AI‑generated content is not acceptable.

Stage 2: Assessment Centre

The assessment centre includes group discussions, individual interviews, and a written exercise.

Stage 3: Individual Interview

Successful candidates will be invited to a 45‑minute panel interview with senior leadership.

Career Pathways

The Scheme allows rapid career progression. Graduates often move into a wide range of professional services roles across the University.

Additional Opportunities / Benefits

Participants can engage in extracurricular activities, staff networks, and university events such as graduation ceremonies and open days.

The University holds the Athena SWAN Bronze Award and various equality recognitions.

Employment Details

• Employment Type: Full‑Time
• Experience: Years (not specified)
• Vacancy: 1
• Salary: £33,002 – £35,608 per month

Key Skills

• Change Management
• Deputy
• Fashion Designing
• Brand Communications
• Activex
• Import & Export

Required Experience

Intern