The Kent Graduate Programme provides exceptional opportunities for graduates wishing to attain a management position in the public sector. Kent County Council is rated a ’4 Star’ council and so is its graduate programme. More than 30,000 people work for Kent County Council ensuring the needs of Kent’s residents are fulfilled and their quality of life improved.

Professional Development

The Kent Graduate Programme is a fast track way to start your career in the public sector in either management, finance or transport development. The Kent Graduate Programme consists of three streams, a two year Management development programme, a two year Transport and Development Stream or a three year Finance development programme. These programmes provide access to training and career development opportunities you won’t find elsewhere the public sector. Whilst on the Management programme you will have strong support for achieving the professional management qualification we offer our graduates and continuous development is an expected part of your career at all levels within Kent County Council. You will also become experienced at project management as you will be asked to work at a senior level on countywide projects. Whilst on the Finance programme you will have the opportunity to study for the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) – Professional Accountancy Qualification. If you join the Transport and Development Stream you will have the option of a management qualification or studying for an MSc in Transport.

The Kent Graduate Programme at Kent County Council offers an unrivalled opportunity to reach a senior position in the public sector.

Opportunities to excel

We offer a working environment of mutual respect and support for the best and brightest people. Our culture values and rewards your individual initiative, open mind and customer focus. With this in mind there is a complete range of opportunities in all areas of our organisation. On the Management Stream you will be placed in four six month placements that will be in different areas of the organisation and require you to develop a diverse range of skills. The Finance Stream consists of four six to nine month placements and the Transport and Development Stream consists of two one year placements.

Support

While you are the driver of your career, most people benefit from the support of others. As a graduate Management trainee you will have a network of support, including Personal Development Adviser, the Kent Graduate Programme Manager, a placement manager, a buddy from the recent graduates and other senior managers who take a close interest in your development. As a graduate Finance trainee you will have the support of the Head of Corporate Finance, a placement manager, a mentor and senior managers. As a graduate on the Transport and Development Stream you will have the support of the Head of Transport and Development, a placement manager and senior managers. Plus you will be part of a cohort of other graduates who started with you - shared learning can be very valuable too.

Our requirements

Our minimum entry requirements are a 2:1 degree or equivalent qualification.
We will consider graduates from any discipline, although excellent communication skills and motivation are required. In addition the ability to work effectively as part of a team will be key to your success.