Graduate Programmes

What is a graduate programme?

A graduate programme is a fixed-term entry-level position offered by companies to university graduates who have graduated within the last few years.

The key difference between graduate programmes and other graduate jobs is that the programmes involve rotation plans and a core element of training and development. Thus, you will normally rotate between different sections or departments during the programme, leaving you with a comprehensive insight into the company and its work.

Graduate programmes include a salary and typically last between 18 and 24 months.

Note that the recruitment process is often long and involves different kinds of tests and interviews. The reason being that graduate programmes are used by companies to attract highly competent graduates with great promise who they wish to retain after the programme as future leaders and specialists within the organisation.

What are the benefits of a graduate programme?

The benefits of a graduate programme are many:

A popular position: Graduate programmes are great development paths and are used by companies to fill valued roles
Valuable insight. During the programme, you will rotate between different departments, which will give you valuable and comprehensive insight and understanding of the company’s products, services and entire supply chain.
A chance to specialize. By trying out different areas of work, you will have the chance to explore and determine what suits you best.
Structured training. Graduate programmes always involve thorough on-the-job training.
Personal guidance and mentoring. Graduates will normally have assigned mentors, who will be giving them guidance during the programme.
Leadership opportunities. Graduate programmes are often used to train leaders, so you may be expected to take on this kind of
A stronger CV. While many programmes lead to long careers in the same organisation, they can also give you some CV power in the labour market in general.

How are graduate programmes structured?

Graduate programme positions are usually full time with a fixed-term contract. The length of the contract varies depending on the company but is usually somewhere between 18 and 24 months.

During this time, you will be working on different projects in different departments. Normally, you will also have time allotted to complete trainings, working closely with senior staff and mentors, and you might have dedicated work assigned only to your position.

This will all depend on the role and your field of expertise and will be determined at the beginning of your time at the company. Any schedule will of course be subject to change, often based on hitting certain targets over time.

What are companies looking for in a graduate?

To qualify for a graduate programme you will normally need to have a master’s degree from a university or equivalent institution.

Whatever your educational background, there will be plenty of graduate programmes looking for strong performers and promising candidates.

Having a desire to progress your career and to become a leader or a specialist in your chosen field is important, as recruiters are looking for some potential. However, it is not all about grades – personality matters, and so does your will to adapt to a new culture.

In short, expect the recruitment process to be demanding but also fun and enriching.