At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn commercial management in the built environment and develop key financial skills.
- Company: Join Wates, a leader in the construction industry with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, and 26 days holiday.
- Other info: Network with nearly 200 trainees and gain valuable insights across various departments.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience and mentorship from industry experts.
- Qualifications: Graduating in 2026 or earlier with a minimum 2:2 degree classification.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
As a Commercial Management Trainee at Wates, you'll develop an understanding of the commercial function within a built-environment project. This will include understanding the processes and activities in relation to cost, profit and risk management.
What you will do Over The Course Of The Programme, You Will:
- Build effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels, including our customers and supply chain.
- Manage, produce and analyse commercial reports, and documentation, relating to the financial status of projects.
- Safeguard the financial and contractual position of the company, understanding the progress of works and legal obligations.
- Develop your understanding in forecasting, risk assessment and cash flow.
About You
- Be passionate about a career in the built environment.
- Be excited to learn and develop new skills.
- Have a curious nature.
- Be reliable and professional.
- Be a problem solver with the ability to think logically.
- Possess good time management skills.
- Prioritise your work to meet agreed deadlines.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be on track to graduate in 2026 or earlier with a degree in any discipline.
- Be working towards or have achieved a minimum 2:2 classification.
- Hold a full UK driving licence - location specific.
Driving Licence Requirements
- The following hiring locations do not require a full UK driving licence: Redditch, North West London - Harrow, Wolverhampton, Manchester, Central London, Warrington, Sheffield, Leatherhead, Luton, East London - Havering.
- The following locations do require a UK driving licence: Newcastle, Newbury, Cambridge / Milton Keynes, Thetford.
Important Note
Some roles require travel between sites. A UK driving licence may not be required at application stage, but Trainees are expected to obtain one if needed for their role. Most roles involve travel to project sites nationwide, so adaptability around travel is essential.
Programme Duration
This is a 2-year graduate programme offering hands-on experience, structured development, and placements across different teams.
What's in it for you?
Our Trainee Management Programme offers placement opportunities across various departments, technical and behavioural development, including support through relevant qualifications and a host of additional benefits. We provide the foundation skills, knowledge and experience you’ll need to build a long-term, successful career.
In Addition, We Offer
- Mentoring, support, and training by industry experts.
- Structured learning plan (a combination of technical and behavioural development).
- Competitive salary.
- Private medical insurance.
- Car allowance / company car scheme.
- Health & wellness programme.
- 26 days holiday + bank holidays.
- For cognate degree trainees: Opportunity to work towards chartered status with a recognised professional body.
- For non-cognate degree trainees: Completion of a construction related Level 4 qualification.
We have nearly 200 talented Trainees currently completing our Trainee Management Programme, providing amazing opportunities to build a network, collaborate and share learning with your peers. Kickstart your journey and apply now!
We value authenticity and encourage you to complete your application without the use of AI tools. This helps us gain a genuine understanding of your individual strengths, experiences, and potential.
Applications for this role close at midday on Tuesday 25 November 2025. This date may be brought forward or extended in line with the number of applications we receive. We’re only able to accept the first application we receive. Any additional applications will be automatically withdrawn.
Graduate Commercial Management Trainee Programme in Wolverhampton employer: TargetJobs UK
Wates is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees through a comprehensive Graduate Commercial Management Trainee Programme. With a strong focus on hands-on experience, structured learning, and mentorship from industry experts, Wates fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and problem-solving. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, private medical insurance, and a health and wellness programme, all while being part of a supportive network of nearly 200 trainees across various locations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Commercial Management Trainee Programme in Wolverhampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past trainees at Wates on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any insider tips they might have. Building these connections can give you a leg up when it comes to interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions related to commercial management. Think about how you can showcase your problem-solving skills and logical thinking. We want to see your passion for the built environment shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research Wates thoroughly! Understand their projects, values, and what makes them tick. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing that role! It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Commercial Management Trainee Programme in Wolverhampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:We want to see the real you! When filling out your application, let your personality shine through. Authenticity is key, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention specific aspects of the Graduate Commercial Management Trainee Programme that excite you and how you can contribute to our team.
Show Your Passion:Express your enthusiasm for a career in the built environment. We love candidates who are eager to learn and grow, so share any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your interest in this field.
Check Your Details:Before hitting submit, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial in commercial management.
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Commercial Management Trainee, you'll be dealing with cost, profit, and risk management. Brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss how you would approach managing budgets and forecasts. This shows you're serious about the role and understand its core responsibilities.
✨Build Relationships
Wates emphasises building effective relationships with stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Think about times when you’ve worked in teams or managed client relationships, as this will demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
✨Show Your Curiosity
The job description mentions a curious nature. Be prepared to ask insightful questions about the company and the role during your interview. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your willingness to learn and grow within the company.
✨Time Management is Key
With the emphasis on meeting deadlines, be ready to discuss how you prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively. Share specific examples from your studies or previous work experiences where you successfully balanced multiple responsibilities.
