Operations Management Graduate

First Bus; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & dental cover

Pension scheme

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Discounts on travel and shopping

Cycle to work scheme

Free bus pass after probation

Job summary

First Bus is offering a two-year Operations Management Graduate Programme in Chelmsford to learn how to run depots, lead teams and influence local communities. You will rotate across locations, gain hands-on operational experience from day one, and receive mentoring from managers to develop into a future Operations Manager.

Expect structured learning events, CPC study support, and exposure to customer-facing operations, with a clear progression path into frontline management after completing the

Qualifications

• Degree completed or expected in 2025/2026.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to rotate to different locations for six months.

Responsibilities

• Learn to run depots and lead people.
• Develop leadership and operational experience.
• Rotate across locations to understand business operations.
• Support managers and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in any discipline

Job description

About First Bus

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

Location

Chelmsford

During our two-year Operations Management Graduate Programme, you’ll learn how to run our depots, lead our people and make a positive impact on the local communities we serve.

We know that great leaders need broad, well-rounded experience. That’s why our programme offers the opportunity to develop your leadership skills, gain hands‑on operational experience and take on real responsibility from day one.

You’ll work within one of our operating businesses, with most of your programme based in that geographical area. You’ll also complete a six-month rotation in a different location, giving you the opportunity to experience the breadth of our FTSE 250 organisation and understand how different parts of the business operate.

How will the programme help you develop?

You’ll receive plenty of support throughout your journey, including a buddy, a mentor and dedicated managers who are invested in your development.

Our development programme is designed to give you the knowledge, skills and experience needed to become an effective manager and future leader. This will include:

• Our New Manager Programme, providing the fundamentals of people management.

• Four two-day graduate learning events, bringing you together with fellow graduates to develop your skills and knowledge.

• Regular learning sessions with subject matter experts, helping you build your understanding of the public transport industry and our business.

• Study support for your Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

We also believe that great operational leaders need to understand the experiences of the colleagues and customers they support. You’ll therefore have the opportunity to gain your Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driving licence and spend time in customer‑facing service roles, building a first‑hand understanding of our operations and the passenger experience.

At the end of the two‑year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a first‑line management role within the business, with a clear development pathway towards becoming an Operations Manager.

About you

We’re looking for people who are enthusiastic about leadership, enjoy solving problems and want to make a difference. You’ll need:

• A degree in any discipline, with a 2:2 or above, achieved in 2025 or 2026.

• A full UK driving licence.

• A passion for customer service and delivering a positive passenger experience.

• 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

Our recruitment process is designed to help us understand your strengths, potential and suitability for the programme.

• Online assessment – You’ll complete an online assessment through Arctic Shores, using interactive, game‑based exercises to help us understand your behavioural strengths and potential.

• Microsoft Teams video interview – You’ll be invited to a video interview via Microsoft Teams, where we’ll learn more about your motivation for joining First Bus, your skills and your interest in the programme.

• Assessment centre – You’ll take part in an assessment centre, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths, problem‑solving skills and potential to succeed on the programme. A final‑stage interview may also follow the assessment centre.

The closing date for applications is Friday 27 November. Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than advertised should we receive a high volume of applications

Rewards

Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support

• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• Up to 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares

Equal Opportunities

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.