Graduate Finance

Graduate Finance Programme at BAE Systems

Start Date: 18th August 2025

BAE Systems offers a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements. However, it is expected that on our Graduate programme, you will be required to attend your site 3-4 days per week. Please note, this may change based on the needs of the business.

Over the course of the 3-year programme, you will undertake 3 x 12-month placements, each in a different geographical location across our various sites in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Finance Accelerate Programme

Finance Accelerate is our three-year Graduate scheme for high-calibre individuals who want to own their career aspirations, supported by training and practical experience, to help them succeed as a highly skilled member of the finance community at BAE Systems.

The scheme offers significant responsibility and exposure across three diverse placements to gain a broad understanding of all aspects of finance and how these fit into the wider organisation. BAE Systems supports you in obtaining a Chartered Accountancy qualification (CIMA or ACCA) and is committed to investing in training.

Why BAE Systems?

This is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented within our industry.

What You Will Be Doing

On our Finance Accelerate Graduate Programme, we will invest in your development with encouragement and support to reach your full potential. Alongside your studies, you will be given tools to succeed through:

• Regular development workshops
• An annual conference
• Cross functional peer collaboration
• 360 feedback surveys
• Stretch assignments
• A senior mentor

You’ll have the opportunity to learn from colleagues who are experts in their field and gain insights from real-world experiences.

Duties and Responsibilities

Within the three years, you will undertake three 12-month placements across the UK in different Business areas and core areas of Finance. You will gain experience in three of the following areas:

• Financial Planning & Analysis
• Financial Controls & Systems
• Governance
• Project Finance
• Shared Services – Finance Operations
• Tax
• Treasury

Skills

As a minimum requirement, you’ll need to have obtained, or be predicted to obtain, a 2.2 in your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. All degree subjects will be considered.

Opportunities for Growth and Development

We encourage employees to explore projects beyond their primary responsibilities, providing them with diverse experiences. With a wide range of products and a multinational presence, there are ample opportunities for employees to engage in various projects and initiatives.

Community Involvement

In addition to professional development, BAE Systems values community engagement. Employees are encouraged to participate in community projects, STEM initiatives, and employee resource groups, offering valuable learning experiences outside of their regular roles.

Retention and Career Development

We offer sponsorship, career development support, and high-potential development programs to help employees plan their careers effectively, providing opportunities for accelerated development for those who demonstrate aspiration, ability, and performance.

Benefits

• Competitive pension scheme
• Enhanced annual leave allowance
• Company contributed Share Incentive Plan
• Flexible working
• Employee assistance programme
• Cycle2work
• Employee discounts
• Annual incentive eligibility

On commencement of employment, you will be paid a one-off non-consolidated lump sum payment of £2,000 as a Welcome Payment. This provides you with the opportunity to ease your transition.

Inclusivity within our recruitment process

If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.

Our Environmental Responsibility

As a future-focused business, we’re committed to changing the world for the better. Our target is to achieve net zero emissions by 2030. We’re innovating new ways to develop on-site renewable electricity and setting ambitious targets for water consumption and waste generation.

Export Control/Security

Many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Factors including your nationality and place of birth may limit the roles you can perform within the organisation.