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Develops management and operational skills through placements across First Bus’s coach businesses, leading improvement projects, identifying efficiencies and supporting business growth.
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.
The Coaching Management Graduate will join the First Bus Graduate Programme, a two-year development programme designed to build the knowledge, skills and experience needed to contribute to the growth of First Bus’s coaching business, a key part of the organisation’s growth strategy.
Through a series of placements across First Bus’s coach businesses, the graduate will gain hands-on experience of different operations, market segments and geographies.
Working alongside experienced colleagues, they will take on meaningful responsibilities, develop an understanding of the coaching sector and identify opportunities to improve performance, create synergies and support future growth.
Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities:
The postholder will take ownership of their personal and professional development, making effective use of the support and opportunities available through the First Bus Graduate Programme.
Key responsibilities will include:
Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders across First Bus’s coaching businesses.
Gain broad, practical experience across the different coach businesses and activities, developing an understanding of their operations, capabilities and markets.
Lead projects and workstreams that support business improvement, operational performance and growth opportunities.
Identify opportunities to share best practice, improve efficiency and create synergies across the coaching businesses.
How will the programme help you develop?
You’ll receive dedicated support throughout the programme from a buddy, a mentor and managers who are invested in your development.
Our development programme will help you build the skills, knowledge and experience needed to become a future leader within our coaching businesses.
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 a relevant qualification; for example, the International Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
At the end of the two-year programme, you’ll be expected to move into a management role within our coaching business.
About you
We’re looking for analytical, adaptable and forward-thinking individuals who are excited by change and want to help shape the future of First Bus.
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 customer experience.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Resilience and a positive approach to learning and development.
The right to work in the UK.
Be geographically flexible, with the first rotation expected to take place in Shropshire, with the second likely to be in Yorkshire.
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
How to apply
Apply directly through the company website. Clicking the link below will open the application page in a new window.
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Industry: Transportation
Hello there, we’re First Bus. We’re one of the UK’s biggest bus operators trusted by millions to do more than just get people from A to B. For us, travel is about those everyday moments that bring people together and create new experiences. We call it ‘Moving the Everyday’ because that’s what we’re here to do. At First Bus, we focus on what matters most. Our people. We were the first in the sector to achieve real Living Wage employer status because we believe when we take care of our team, they’re in the best position to take care of others. Sustainability matters to us. We’re on track for a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035 with over 800 zero-emission buses already on the road. In partnership with local authorities, we're working to improve air quality, reduce congestion and make travel easier for everyone. We’re always looking for ways to improve the experience for those who rely on us. With innovations like Tap On, Tap Off payments, we’re making travel more convenient and secure. We’re not just about transport — we’re about making a real difference to the community, the environment and the future of how we travel. In the UK, we also operate Specialist Passenger Solutions, First Travel Solutions, York Pullman Bus Company, and Ensignbus. Beyond the UK, we have Aircoach in Ireland. We’re always listening, inspired by the people we serve and the moments we’re part of. Together, you’re helping shape what’s next for us. As part of FirstGroup, we’re connected to something bigger. Our experience and focus on doing the right thing help us keep moving forward with purpose.
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