People Graduate

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.

First Bus is one of the UK’s largest public transport operators, with 18,000 colleagues working across a diverse range of roles and business areas. Our people are at the heart of our success, helping us make every journey enjoyable.

On our two-year People Graduate Programme, you’ll get involved from day one, developing an understanding of how our People teams operate at a local business unit level and learning the fundamentals of effective people management.

You’ll also spend time with our central People teams, discovering how our people processes, policies and services come together to shape the overall colleague experience.

Throughout the programme, you’ll gain exposure to a range of specialist areas, including Learning and Development, Talent Acquisition, Employee Relations, Internal Communications and more.

How will the programme help you develop?

Your programme will consist of four rotations across our central People functions. One rotation will be based in Leeds within our People Advisory Services team, providing a strong grounding in HR knowledge, employee relations and people practices.

The remaining rotations will be delivered remotely, with travel as required to support your role. These could include Learning and Development, Talent Acquisition, People Policy, Internal Communications and HR Projects, giving you the opportunity to explore different specialisms and help shape your own development journey.

You’ll receive dedicated support throughout the programme from a buddy, a mentor and managers who are committed to helping you succeed.

Your development will also include:

• Four two-day graduate learning events, giving you the opportunity to build your skills and connect with fellow graduates.
• Regular learning sessions with subject matter experts, helping you develop your knowledge of the business and the wider public transport industry.
• The opportunity to work towards a CIPD Level 5 qualification, if you haven’t already achieved one, with study support provided.

At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a People role, either within one of our local business units or within a central team specialising in a particular area of people practice.

About you

We’re looking for people who are passionate about supporting others, developing talent and helping create a positive colleague experience. You’ll need:

• A degree in HR or Business is preferred, although other disciplines may be considered.
• A 2:2 or above, achieved in 2025 or 2026.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A passion for developing and supporting people.
• 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.

Salary - Competitive

The closing date for applications is Friday 27th 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.