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Develops operational leadership and depot management skills through hands-on experience in bus operations, staff management, customer service and service performance improvement.
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.
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.
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
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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