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- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of innovative early careers programmes.
- Company: Join a diverse and inclusive organisation committed to talent development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a competitive salary of £57k.
- Why this job: Shape the future of talent while making a real social impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in early careers programmes and understanding of UK apprenticeship systems required.
- Other info: We welcome applications from all backgrounds and support candidates with disabilities.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an expert in early careers strategy with the vision and experience to shape the future of talent development? We are looking for a dynamic Early Careers Manager to lead the design and delivery of a truly forward-thinking approach to apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and industry placements. Based on site in the Birmingham office 3 days a week, this role is a strategic leadership opportunity for someone with deep knowledge of the early careers landscape and a strong track record of delivering high-impact apprenticeship and graduate initiatives.
In this role, you will take ownership of a comprehensive early careers strategy, including apprenticeships (trade, professional, and degree-level), internships, T-Level placements, and a newly launched graduate scheme. You will be responsible for building a sustainable and inclusive talent pipeline that reflects our organisation's values and long-term workforce priorities.
You will bring insight and broad experience across early careers programmes. We are looking for someone who understands the complexity of apprenticeship funding, policy frameworks, and graduate development models - and who knows how to turn that understanding into action.
Key areas of responsibility:- Lead the creation and evolution of an organisation-wide Early Careers Strategy.
- Design and implement a structured graduate programme, from recruitment through to rotation and retention.
- Expand our apprenticeship offering, ensuring full, effective use of the levy.
- Build strong partnerships with education providers to support T-Level, internship, and work experience placements.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to plan future talent needs and build career pathways.
- Embed measurement, review cycles, and a continuous improvement mindset across all programmes.
- Proven experience designing and delivering early careers programmes, especially apprenticeships and graduate schemes.
- In-depth understanding of UK apprenticeship systems, levy management, and regulatory frameworks.
- The ability to connect strategy with delivery - and to influence, guide, and inspire others in the process.
- A passion for creating equitable, inclusive opportunities and advancing social mobility.
- Experience in engaging with colleges, universities, training providers, and industry bodies.
For more information please get in touch with Jacqui Wall.
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we are happy to discuss flexible working options.
We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group.
Early Careers Manager employer: Ashley Kate HR & Finance
Contact Detail:
Ashley Kate HR & Finance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Careers Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the early careers space. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who share your passion for talent development. Building relationships can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest trends and changes in apprenticeship funding and graduate development models. Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, and social media channels to ensure you’re well-informed and can speak knowledgeably during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful early careers programmes you've led or contributed to. Be ready to highlight how you’ve measured success and implemented improvements, as this will demonstrate your strategic thinking and impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter’s current early careers initiatives and think about how you can contribute to them. Tailoring your conversation to align with our values and goals will show your genuine interest and understanding of our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Careers Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Early Careers Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in early careers programmes, apprenticeships, and graduate schemes. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of apprenticeship funding and policy frameworks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your experience with the company's vision for talent development. Emphasise your passion for creating inclusive opportunities and how your background aligns with their values.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: In your application, showcase any experience you have in building partnerships with educational institutions or industry bodies. This is crucial for the role, so provide concrete examples of successful collaborations you've led or been part of.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashley Kate HR & Finance
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As an Early Careers Manager, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to create and implement a comprehensive early careers strategy. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully designed and delivered programmes in the past, particularly focusing on apprenticeships and graduate schemes.
✨Understand the Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the UK apprenticeship systems, funding mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks. During the interview, highlight your knowledge and experience in these areas, as they are key to the role and will show that you can navigate the complexities involved.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This role requires building strong partnerships with education providers and internal stakeholders. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve common goals, and how you plan to engage with colleges and universities to enhance talent development.
✨Passion for Inclusion and Equity
The organisation values diversity and inclusion, so it's important to convey your commitment to creating equitable opportunities. Discuss any initiatives you've led or been part of that promote social mobility and inclusivity within early careers programmes.
