Graduate Programmes
Whether you want to work at the sharp end of operations, or in a fast paced commercial environment, you’ll be learning brand new techniques and strategies. We offer a great opportunity every year for a number of graduates across our UK business.
Be part of a graduate programme which will ensure you continuously develop your knowledge and skills whilst building a network of professional colleagues.
Join us on the journey, it is a great way to jump start a successful career with National Express.
What's in it for you?
Salary
Your annual salary will be £27,000
Holidays
You'll have 22 days of holiday, excluding bank holidays
Pensions
Request a 5% basic salary contribution rate, matched by NX
Flexible Benefits
Cycle to work scheme, retail & gym discounts and more
Accreditations
Variety of training programmes, including option to gain a Masters, ACCA etc.
Travel Benefits
Free bus pass in the West Midlands and free UK coach travel
Support
Previous graduate and senior mentor partnerships for ongoing support and advice
What our graduates say
Richard Hancock joined the Bus and Coach Programme in 2017
"I joined National Express in 2017 on their graduate scheme, and I worked across both Bus & Coach. It was a fantastic introduction to the company where I gained experience of operations at our bus depots, organised coach transport to festivals and events, worked on projects across several different teams in our head office and helped customers at our coach stations!
Through working in many different teams, I've always appreciated how everyone in the company is friendly, welcoming and helpful, which makes you feel at home in National Express in no time at all.
I'm currently working for our parent company, Mobico Group, in the Business Development team, where I focus on growing the company. This includes bidding for contracts, helping to develop our Strategic Plan and working on commercial & financial reviews. It's exciting to understand and help develop so many different parts of our diverse, varied business".
Dharel Patel joined the Bus Programme in 2016
"I joined National Express over 6 years ago on the Bus Graduate Management Trainee scheme, and what a journey it's been! I've had the opportunity to work across all UK functions in various roles from operations, commercial and strategy.
I now have my dream role running the UK Environment and Sustainability Team which involves developing our Net Zero strategy and translating the strategy into action plans to deliver our environmental objectives, including a net zero fleet.
Working for National Express means we're part of a bigger picture to transform our cities and communities, making them more accessible, equitable and sustainable through providing reliable public transport options. By getting people out of cars and onto shared transport modes, we're playing a big part in making the future just and sustainable for all. Being part of this purpose and driving positive climate action is what really makes working for National Express so special"
Katie McGrath joined the Bus Programme in 2016
I started my journey at National Express as a graduate management trainee working within our Operations department. NX has offered me so many opportunities to develop my skills and provided a safe, supportive space for me to grow in my career.
I am now fortunate enough to be a part of the Engineering department, managing a fantastic team of people who focus on introducing more effective ways of working and embedding improvements into engineering.
Currently, my team is working on the introduction of a new digital workshop solution that will see huge changes to our business. I love being part of such a fast-moving business where there is always a new challenge!
Tom Berry joined the Engineering Programme in 2021
Why I applied for the scheme: This scheme provided a good foundation for me to understand where I wanted to take my career in the public transport industry.
My previous experience in Lithium Ion Battery Manufacturer poised me for a career in zero emissions and working for National Express has only enhanced that.
I am now a key member of the team delivering zero emission vehicles and their associated charging infrastructure into our Group-wide businesses.
Graduate Application process:
Application Opens
Applications open, you will need to answer some questions and upload you CV
Video Interviews
Pre-recorded questions to answer which takes around 15 minutes
Virtual Assessment
Virtual assessments which may include group exercise, presentation and short interview
Final Interview
Face to face interview with 2 senior people in National Express
Frequently Asked Questions:
When does the programme start and how long is it?
You would start in September and the scheme is a fixed 18 month contract.
Where would I be based?
Most programmes are Birmingham based (this is where our Head Office is) but you may be required to complete a placement at one of our other UK locations i.e. Stansted, Fareham
What graduate roles are available at National Express?
Most of our roles are General Management Trainee which means you complete 3 month placements in different business areas but we may also offer specific roles such as Operations, Finance, Business Intelligence, Engineering, Business Change Graduates.
When can I apply?
We normally start the application process around January with video interviews taking place in February, Virtual Assessment Centre in March and a final face to face interview in April.
What happens once the scheme finishes?
At the end of scheme all graduates will have the opportunity to apply for roles within National Express and support will be provided.
Can I apply if I have applied before?
Yes we are open to people reapplying.
Can I apply if I don’t live in the UK?
You must have a right to work in the UK and be willing to relocate to the Midlands.
Who do I contact if I have any questions?
Please email earlycareers@nationalexpress.com
Back to top
