Graduate Business Trainee – 18-Month Rotational Programme
Location: Newport, East Yorkshire (Private Sector SME)
Start Date: September 2026 (18-month program)
Positions: 2 openings (full-time, entry-level)
Salary: Competitive graduate salary + benefits (pension, holidays, etc.)
Looking to launch your career in a dynamic business environment?
Join our Graduate Business Trainee program and gain hands-on experience across multiple departments in our fast-paced FMCG/retail company. This 18-month rotational scheme offers an immersive induction and exposure to Commercial, Operations, Finance, and HR functions. You’ll collaborate with mentors, tackle real projects, and develop a well-rounded skill set to kick-start your business career in a supportive private-sector SME where your ideas matter.
Key Responsibilities (What You’ll Do)
- Cross-Department Rotation: Take part in an intensive induction and structured rotations through Commercial, Operations, Finance, and HR. Immerse yourself in each department’s day-to-day activities and understand how they contribute to overall business success.
- Project Assignments: Tackle meaningful projects in every rotation. This could include analysing sales data, streamlining an operational process, assisting with financial reporting, or supporting HR initiatives. You’ll prepare reports, analyse data, and present your findings at end-of-rotation reviews, showcasing what you’ve learned.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with department teams and managers. Attend meetings, support decision-making with research and analysis, and contribute your insights. You’ll build teamwork skills by collaborating across functions and driving projects forward with a proactive attitude.
- Continuous Learning: Treat each rotation as a learning opportunity. Ask questions, seek feedback, and develop a holistic understanding of our business. By the end of the program, you’ll have a 360° view of how a successful SME operates and be ready to specialize in the area that best fits your strengths.
Candidate Profile (What We’re Looking For)
- Education: You are a recent or soon-to-be graduate with a UK bachelor’s degree (achieved or expected 2:1 or higher) in Business, Management, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field. (No prior work experience required – this program is designed for first-time graduates!)
- Analytical Skills: You enjoy working with data and numbers, and you have strong analytical and numerical skills. You can interpret trends, handle spreadsheets (proficiency in Excel or similar tools is a plus), and demonstrate commercial awareness when solving problems.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are a must. You can prepare clear reports/presentations and are confident speaking in meetings. You’ll also need solid presentation skills to share your project findings each rotation.
- Attitude & Adaptability: We value a proactive “can-do” attitude. You should be curious, eager to learn, and adaptable to new challenges. Rotating through different teams means you’ll embrace variety, manage changing priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Team Player: Able to work well with others, contribute to group goals, and welcome feedback. You have strong teamwork skills and can also take initiative to work independently when needed.
- Detail & Integrity: Attention to detail is important – whether it’s analysing data or drafting a report, you double-check your work. You act with high integrity, aligning with company values, and handle information responsibly.
- Additional Plus: A genuine interest in the FMCG/retail sector (we love when you’re passionate about our industry!), familiarity with data analysis tools, and a full UK driving licence (preferred, for occasional site visits or travel between locations).
Salary & Benefits (What We Offer)
Graduates in the Yorkshire and Humber region typically start on around £27,000 per year, and we ensure our salary offering is competitive with this benchmark. In fact, recent data shows graduate trainees in the East Yorkshire area earn about £26,000–£27,000 on average. We offer a salary in the mid-£20,000s, depending on qualifications, plus a benefits package to reward your contributions as you grow with us. Here’s what you can expect:
- Competitive Pay: A starting salary aligned with UK graduate schemes (circa £27–29k range) – so you’ll be earning on par with top graduate programs in the region.
- Company Benefits: Enjoy a range of benefits including a contributory pension scheme, generous paid holiday allowance, and other perks (e.g. employee discounts, free on-site parking, and wellness programs). We believe in taking care of our team.
- Training & Development: Structured training modules and regular workshops (e.g. leadership development, personal development) are built into the program. You’ll also receive one-on-one mentoring from experienced managers keen to help you succeed.
- Career Progression: This rotational scheme is an investment in your future. By the end of the 18 months, you’ll have the chance to transition into a permanent role with us in the department that best fits your talents. We’re growing, and we want you to grow into a future leader!
- Variety & Exposure: As a graduate in our SME, you won’t be a small cog in a big machine – you’ll have meaningful exposure to all parts of the business. This breadth of experience will accelerate your learning and make every day different and exciting.
How to Apply
Ready to take the first step toward an exciting career? Apply now via Indeed by submitting your CV and a cover letter. In your cover letter, tell us why you’re interested in the world of FMCG/retail and what excites you about a rotational graduate program. Show us how your skills and attitude make you the ideal candidate for this opportunity.
Application Deadline: August 21st 2026. Early applications are encouraged. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial interview and assessment.
Kick-start your career with us and unlock your potential through our Graduate Trainee Programme. We’re excited to meet the next generation of talent – let’s grow together!
Join us and become a future leader in our business. Apply today!
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 18 months
Pay: £27,000.00-£29,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Brough HU15 2FT: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
