Oxford Bus Group is a leading public transport operator serving Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Gloucestershire, operating well-known brands including Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel, Carousel Buses and Pulhams Coaches. Part of the Go‑Ahead Group, we deliver high‑quality, sustainable transport services through innovative solutions including electric buses and demand‑responsive transport.
We are looking for ambitious, motivated graduates to join our 18‑month Operations Development Programme. The scheme offers hands‑on experience across multiple operational areas of the business, with opportunities for secondments across the wider Go‑Ahead Group to broaden your industry knowledge and support your long‑term career development.
Were seeking resourceful and curious individuals with strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for problem‑solving and sustainable transport. Many of our senior leaders began their careers on our graduate programmes, making this an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding future within one of the UKs leading transport groups.
What are we looking for in our future operational leaders?
* Have a valid driving licence by the start of their employment.
* Be interested, and able, to obtain a PCV licence.
* Have a 2:2 degree or above in any degree discipline or be expected to receive this.
* Have permission to work in the United Kingdom.
* Have strong technical and operational skills.
* Show an interest in the industry; extensive knowledge of the industry is not essential, but you must show eagerness to learn.
* Collaborative and accountable individuals who can use their own initiative as well as take guidance from colleagues.
* Ability to communicate effectively with people from all backgrounds to express views, challenge ideas and influence decisions.
* Willingness to travel to take on new challenges in different parts of the business.
What you can expect to experience
* Manage relationships with customers, colleagues, and our external partners.
* Real responsibility and accountability from day one, supported by opportunities to shadow our business leaders to benefit from their experience.
* Secondments to other areas of our business to develop your skills and industry knowledge.
* Opportunity to influence and contribute to decision making within an industry leading business.
* Structured learning and development alongside your day‑to‑day role.
* Opportunity to network and share your experiences with your colleagues and peers.
* Zero‑carbon initiatives and innovation.
Behaviours youll exhibit
* Insight & Innovation - Use internal and external information to identify opportunities, think creatively, and generate ideas that drive continuous improvement.
* Strategic & Flexible Thinking - Approach challenges from multiple perspectives, value diverse viewpoints, and adapt thinking to meet evolving business needs.
* Communication & Influence - Communicate clearly and confidently, build strong networks, and constructively challenge to achieve positive outcomes.
* Collaboration & People Development - Foster teamwork, value others contributions, and create an environment where people can learn, grow, and succeed.
* Delivery & Accountability - Take ownership, enable action, and deliver measurable results, particularly during periods of change.
* Customer Focus - Anticipate customer needs and ensure the organisation stays ahead in delivering value.
What youll get out of it
* Clear and structured pathway to progression.
* Exposure to all areas of our business, and the wider bus industry.
* Free travel on many of Go‑Aheads services.
* Opportunity to get your PCV (bus) driving licence.
* Institution of Occupational Safety and Health training.
* Opportunity to earn recognised qualifications in transport, such as Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence.
* Dedicated mentor throughout the duration of the programme
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