Operations Graduate in Cowley

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.

We’re 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 UK’s 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.

What behaviours you’ll 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 you’ll 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-Ahead’s 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.