Commercial Graduate

This structured rotational graduate scheme focuses on developing commercial management expertise across the defence and intelligence sectors.

At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.

Role Purpose:

QinetiQ’s Commercial Graduates focus on four main objectives: contract drafting, deal shaping, negotiation, and managing relationships.  Working in commercial management develops a broad set of skills and knowledge that you will use to support successful business outcomes.  You will be in a position to make a real difference to the operational success of our business.   

You will drive agreement of successful deals, ensure that contracts are managed professionally and profitably, as well as gaining exposure to new business initiatives. Successful members of this team enjoy the detail of contract documents, while also understanding the bigger picture of the deal, its business implications and risks.

You may have the opportunity to travel and work at some of our other UK sites during your graduate programme.  By the end of the programme, you will be ready to step into an Assistant Commercial Manager role, taking on more responsibility and growing your career in Commercial. 

Key Accountabilities:

We look for graduates who are proactive, passionate, analytical and forward thinking with a questioning mind and commercial instinct.

You will be expected to:  

• Undertake commercial tasks across a number of projects;  

• Build your knowledge of both contracts / commercial and our business;  

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the range of capabilities of your area and the wider business;  

• Develop an understanding of our customers and their needs, helping grow your role and support succession planning and customer delivery; and 

• Continually seek involvement and participation in projects to grow your understanding and commercial acumen. 

Key Capabilities/Knowledge:

QinetiQ’s Commercial Graduates will…  

• Be immersed into the team for a true hands-on experience;  

• Learn to apply commercial judgement and creativity to find new and innovative ways to do business; 

• Help to maintain profits and minimise risk at every stage of the business lifecycle;  

• Have regular exposure to different functions including Legal Services, Procurement, Finance, and Operations; and   

• Have regular exposure to many different parts of the business across our Defence and Intelligence businesses.  

We offer a comprehensive graduate programme where you will receive a mix of first-class on-the-job experience and training such as negotiation, presentation and bid writing, whilst working alongside experienced Commercial Managers.  You will also study for an internationally recognised qualification to help build your professional skills.   

Alongside joining a community of multi-discipline Early Careers members, you will be assigned a ‘buddy’, an individual who is currently participating on or recently finished the commercial graduate programme, who will be available to support you and offer advice and help you drive your graduate programme.    

No two days are the same when you work here.  You will be exposed to a diverse range of projects from the start so that you are able to make a positive impact to the business.  You will utilise the experience and knowledge of the Commercial team to deliver value and make a real difference.

Experience & Qualifications:

In order to apply for the QinetiQ Commercial Graduate Programme, you will:  

• Have gained, or be expected to gain a credible and relevant degree;   

• Have a strong pre-university academic report;  

• Be a keen and strong problem solver with a good eye for detail;  

• Be an excellent communicator and team player with a track record of establishing effective relationships with others; and  

• Be curious and seek opportunities through taking ownership and driving your graduate programme.  

Our Benefits (the list is not exhaustive):

• On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms

• Coaching and Mentoring

• 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday

• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance

• Flexible Benefits package

• Employee discount portal

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Employee-led networks