At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into finance with real responsibilities and influence key business decisions.
- Company: Join British Airways, a leading airline with a vibrant graduate community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, discounted flights, and support for professional qualifications.
- Other info: Engage in sustainability initiatives and connect with diverse colleague networks.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance while working with AI and innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:2 degree; strong communication and problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 34500 - 34500 £ per year.
Duration: Three years
Location: London Heathrow
Salary: £34,500
Application Closing Date: Sunday 21st June 2026
Start Date: October 2026
Role Overview
You will immediately enter the first of three roles with real responsibility, business partnering critical areas of the British Airways business. You could be influencing investment decisions on our onboard products, analysing commercial decisions on network growth opportunities, or negotiating with our vast supplier network to maintain cost competitiveness. As finance continues to evolve, we are building an organisation of finance professionals who combine strong commercial judgement with the ability to work effectively alongside AI-enabled tools and autonomous digital agents. This means understanding not only how to use technology to improve outcomes, but also how to supervise, challenge and validate AI-supported analysis and processes within a secure, transparent, traceable and auditable regulatory framework. You’ll gain exposure to how modern finance teams balance traditional analytical and business partnering skills with new capabilities in data, automation and AI governance — helping shape the future of finance at one of the world’s leading airlines. You’ll make the most of your three years via three rotating placements, experiencing different ideas and projects within different areas of Finance supporting teams across the business – all while building your network along the way. You’ll quickly become an invaluable asset within any team, experiencing the breadth and depth of opportunities that only one of the world's biggest and best-known airlines can provide. We’ll also sponsor and support you to gain your preferred professional finance qualification – CIMA, ACCA or ACA (ICAEW).
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for a minimum of a 2:2 degree (or equivalent) or above in any subject. You will be commercially aware, have strong communication skills, and will demonstrate an ability to influence others. You will also have strong problem‑solving skills, with a willingness to tackle business challenges in creative and strategic ways. We are particularly interested in curious and adaptable individuals who are excited by how AI and emerging technologies can enhance finance, while recognising the importance of human judgement, governance, accountability and ethical decision‑making. An interest in combining traditional finance skills with the ability to operate effectively in technology‑enabled environments, including supervising AI-assisted workflows and automated processes.
Benefits
- Be part of our graduate community and connect with peers across the business
- Get involved in sustainability and community initiatives
- Join colleague networks such as LGBTQ+ Flying Proud and ethnic minority network BeMe
- Volunteer in schools and universities to inspire future talent
- Enjoy discounted flights and generous annual leave to explore the world
Visa Sponsorship
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they will have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of the graduate scheme. Please also note that the completion of the graduate scheme will enable the graduates to be eligible to apply for Finance roles. Finance roles are not currently eligible for sponsorship. For more information please contact emerging.talent@ba.com.
Graduate - Finance employer: British Airways
British Airways is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment at London Heathrow, where graduates can thrive in their finance careers. With a strong focus on professional development, including sponsorship for finance qualifications and opportunities to engage in sustainability initiatives, employees are encouraged to grow and connect with diverse networks. The unique blend of traditional finance skills and cutting-edge technology ensures that you will be at the forefront of the evolving finance landscape within one of the world's leading airlines.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate - Finance
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're a student or recent grad eyeing a trainee role in banking or financial services, your university career services are your secret weapon. They often have connections with firms, and can guide you to exclusive openings that aren't advertised widely, so make sure to get in touch!
✨Get Involved in Finance Societies
Joining finance-related societies or clubs at your university can seriously up your game. They often host networking events, guest speaker sessions, and workshops that can connect you directly with industry professionals and potential employers.
✨Show Your Passion Through Projects
Try working on finance-related projects or internships, even if they're unpaid. It shows your commitment and gives you something to discuss in interviews. Plus, if you've got a blog or a portfolio detailing your findings on market trends, that can really impress recruiters!
✨Use Our Website to Find Opportunities
We at StudySmarter recommend that you regularly check our website for trainee opportunities at leading companies like British Airways. They often post openings directly there, so don't miss out on the chance to apply and show what you've got!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate - Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show your numbers!:In banking and financial services, we love a bit of quantification. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or projects that showcase your analytical skills. If you've tackled math-heavy subjects or have experience with financial modelling, let that shine on your CV!
Tailor your application to finance:Don't just copy and paste a generic cover letter; weave in your passion for finance and share any relevant experiences or internships, no matter how small. Writing about your motivations and learning potential in relation to the role will help us see you fit in at British Airways.
Certifications can set you apart:If you've got any finance-related certifications (think CFA Level 1, ACCA, or even online courses), make sure to include them! They show initiative and a commitment to your career in banking, which we really appreciate.
Proofread with a fine-tooth comb:In finance, attention to detail is crucial! Spam your application with typos or poor formatting, and we may flag you as 'not detail-oriented'. So, let’s double-check everything. A clear structure in your CV and cover letter will also help your application stand out. Remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Airways
✨Brush Up on Your Financial Knowledge
Make sure you’re comfortable with financial concepts and terminology. The interview may dive into areas like risk assessment or investment strategies, so revisiting some core principles and current trends in the banking sector will really help us stand out at British Airways.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to encounter case studies or hypothetical financial scenarios where you’ll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Practising with examples can help us articulate our thought process clearly and show how we approach problem-solving specific to the banking and financial services sector.
✨Highlight Your Learning Agility
As a trainee, they’re looking for potential over experience. We should emphasise our willingness to learn and adapt. Be ready to discuss how we’ve taken on challenges in the past, showcasing our growth mindset and eagerness to dive into the banking world with both feet.
✨Showcase Your Interest in the Industry
Let your passion for banking shine through! Discuss any relevant coursework, internships, or even personal finance projects you’ve explored. This not only demonstrates our knowledge but also our genuine enthusiasm for a career in banking at British Airways.
