Centrica

Do you have a passion for collaboration, customer focus and a genuine desire to lead? Immerse yourself in the world of Centrica, by joining our Business Management Graduate Programme. You’ll be supported to learn and grow as a leader, as you have the opportunity to choose a variety of placements in strategy, analytics and project management.

"My favourite aspect of the Business Management graduate scheme is the breadth of opportunity available across the rotations. From commercial positions to procurement, marketing, project management and plenty more, within the Business Management scheme you’re given the choice to experience a range of functions across the business and develop an extensive set of skills.”

Using data and customer insight, you will be responsible for driving Centrica's brand and products to meet the changing needs of our colleagues and customers.

"I really enjoyed my first placement as a Research and Insight Analyst. I would analyse data while utilising various technical systems and I would also listen to calls and create commentary on customer verbatims to see or hear first-hand what customers were thinking. This enabled me to upskill in both the analytical and creative worlds. I also found the opportunities to present very valuable. Public speaking is a skill that is transferable professionally and personally, and I have definitely improved in this over the course of my time at Centrica.”

Ken Asielue, 2021 Commercial Marketing Graduate.

Join us for the chance to spend two years gaining a rich array of consumer and commercial analyst experience. You’ll discover what it means to be a Commercial Analyst – and learn how we use a wide range of sophisticated analytical activity to understand customer decision-making.

"What I enjoy most about my stream: I have been able to experience two completely different placements which has allowed me to discover where I thrive as well as giving me opportunity to develop a variety of skills. My first placement as a Digital Marketing analyst allowed me to improve skills like stakeholder management and project management. I got real responsibility from the start and was proud with the impact I made on the team and business in such a short period. Now I have a highly technical role as a data scientist and have improved coding abilities alongside gaining a greater understanding of machine learning techniques.”

Anna Rothberg, 2021 Commercial Analyst Graduate.

Join us for the chance to set yourself on the path to become a Software Engineer – creating solutions to real business issues and exploring new opportunities to unlock the value in our data. You will be given interesting and high-profile assignments, that may include Software Development, Data Engineering, Data Science, Cloud Platform Engineering, Digital Product Engineering, Network Engineering, and Information/Cyber Security.

"As software is changing and improving continuously and Centrica promotes innovation, we are encouraged to get training in many different areas, for example Salesforce, AWS and Microsoft. The continuous learning and all the responsibility we get makes working in this stream really fun and rewarding, as there is always something to look forward to. ”

Mira Shukla, 2021 DTS Graduate Programme.

Energy Marketing & Trading (EM&T) is our window onto an international wholesale commodity market. The teams here execute procurement and risk management strategies for Centrica’s retail arm, British Gas, run a stellar proprietary trading business (covering Power, Gas and Oil products) and run a successful Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) trading operation with a truly global footprint. EM&T has developed a successful asset-backed trading business model and have an ambition to apply automation, digital solutions and cutting-edge analytics to our growing cross commodity portfolio.

"Every rotation has a cross-function aspect to it. There was never a point at which I was looking at a single aspect of trading in isolation. If you’re proactive and interested in how everything fits together then there is always more to learn. ”

Teddy Cheung, 2021 EM&T Graduate.

We currently have opportunities for engineering graduates to join us across the following disciplines: Controls and Instrumentation, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical and Process Engineering. Over three years, you’ll build up your professional engineering experience in a series of placements that could be in areas such as storage, gas production and processing, electrical generation and storage and renewables. During the Scheme we will support you working towards chartership via structured development, mentoring, training and peer-to-peer learning.

"The Scheme provides me with the training and opportunities to develop my skills as an engineer, while also helping me push towards chartered engineer status."

Ben Dove, 2021 Engineering Graduate.

Join us on our HR Graduate Programme, you can help meet the strategic challenges we face while maximising the potential of our people and driving greater inclusion. You’ll also discover what it’s like meeting critical business goals as one of our strategic HR professionals.

The aspect I enjoyed most about the HR scheme was the ability to move around and try lots of different areas of HR and then when in those areas, having the opportunity to get involved and often lead on a variety of exciting projects."

Sian White, 2019 HR Graduate.

Joined: 2021

Stream: DTS Software Engineering

Studied: Mathematics (Undergraduate) and Computer Science (Master's) at University of Birmingham

Current Placement: I am currently placed in Hive - Connected Home, so all things related to smart thermostats and electric vehicles.

Why I chose Centrica: After university I was not entirely sure what type of developer I wanted to be and what I wanted to specialise in, so I was drawn to the idea of having three rotations. This enabled me to learn different programming languages and use exciting new software in each rotation, and already I have gained a better understanding of the area I want to roll off into.

What I enjoy most about my stream: As software is changing and improving continuously and Centrica promotes innovation we are encouraged to get training in many different areas, for example Salesforce, AWS and Microsoft. The continuous learning and and all the responsibility we get makes working in this stream really fun and rewarding, as there is always something to look forward to.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: As part of the graduate scheme we get lots of challenging training. Learning how to be a good follower at Sandhurst has definitely been a highlight! I have also enjoyed the sense of community in Centrica for example the Graduate community, DTS #OneTech community and Women’s Network. One of my favourite DTS events was a machine learning AWS event where we trained a car to drive around a race track at the AWS offices.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Think about why you want to be a software engineer and why for Centrica especially. Also, read through and understand Centrica’s values and think about whether you align with them as everything we do is with the values in mind!

Joined: First joined as a Summer Placement in 2020, then returned for the Graduate Scheme in 2021.

Stream: Commercial Analyst

Studied: MSci Joint Chemistry and Mathematics at Durham University

Current Placement: Graduate Data Scientist in the Pricing, Propositions and Sales team within British Gas

Why I chose Centrica: When applying for jobs, I was unsure exactly what I wanted to do so the opportunity to try 3 different analytical roles across multiple business units was really appealing. The energy industry attracted me because of its ever-changing, fast-paced nature which I knew would bring many challenges my way. I really aligned with Centrica’s values and that they pride themselves on making data driven decisions and putting colleagues and customers first. The application process was also extremely accommodating, and I left the assessment centre with a great impression of the company, so I did not hesitate to accept the offer.

What I enjoy most about my stream: I have been able to experience two completely different placements which has allowed me to discover where I thrive as well as giving me opportunity to develop a variety of skills. My first placement as a Digital Marketing analyst allowed me to improve skills like stakeholder management and project management. I got real responsibility from the start and was proud with the impact I made on the team and business in such a short period. Now I have a highly technical role as a data scientist and have improved coding abilities alongside gaining a greater understanding of machine learning techniques.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: One highlight is simply being part of the graduate community. Despite most of us working from home and being located across the UK, it is the perfect size that everyone knows everyone so has been a great support system as well as social circle. Another highlight is being encouraged to get involved with other areas of the business, and I have recently become a member of the Windsor Charity and Community Board, where I am able to share my passion for supporting charities and the local community. Every person I have met in the last year has been beyond welcoming and supportive and I believe this has allowed me to see greater personal and professional development than I ever expected.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Come with a positive attitude, a curious mindset and a desire to make a difference! The technical skills and domain knowledge can always be learnt along the way.

Joined: 2021

Stream: Commercial Marketing

Studied: French with English at King's College University

Current Placement: Hive - Product Analyst (Electric Vehicles)

Why I chose Centrica: After completing the summer internship with Centrica, I felt completely supported throughout the whole process and I knew that is what I wanted from any company post University. It is difficult to navigate life post University especially as someone who has never had a set career path, so with Centrica being a leading FTSE 100 energy services and solutions company, I knew that starting my career here would not only develop my skills and my interests. Centrica offered 3 placements across 2.5 years and for someone who can just about manage to decide what she is having for lunch, having the experience and exposure to various roles in marketing and the opportunity to work with a number of award winning household brands that Centrica is parent company of, I knew that Centrica would help me make a decision on my career path.

What I enjoy most about my stream: The people! Myself and the group of grads in my year became incredibly close after spending a month together living in Leicester for our first contact centre placement and from there I have been surrounded by super welcoming, encouraging, clever and fun people. I also love the fact that learning is constantly encouraged with Centrica offering the level 4 marketing apprenticeship which I now study for alongside my degree. Starting my grad scheme remotely was incredibly difficult especially as an extrovert but I believe the marketing grads tried hard to get us face to face or if that could not happen we would make sure we organised socials and in person events.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: Moving to a different city for our contact centre placement in Leicester was incredibly fun, getting to explore a different city, starting corporate life, and learning how to deal with customers on the front line meant that we all got stuck in very quickly and learnt a lot. I would also say another highlight would be finally finding what I love in marketing and not being treated like a stereotypical graduate! Working in my current role and having an incredibly supportive team and manager who encourage graduates to own projects and responsibilities has been a great opportunity to push myself and I am truly grateful for that.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Do your research! It is important to showcase that you have made an effort to understand the company, the role, the industry and especially the core Centrica values- care, delivery, agility, courage and collaboration. During the process Centrica want to see how you and your experiences have aligned to their values! I mean as cliché as it sounds you do not need to be an expert to apply for this scheme, but Centrica want people people, which essentially means do not hold back in showcasing your individuality and how your uniqueness will be an asset to the scheme and any role you undertake within the scheme!

Joined: 2021

Stream: Commercial Marketing

Studied: Financial Mathematics at University of Kent

Current Placement: Assistant Energy Propositions Manager

Why I chose Centrica: Speaking to Centrica graduates during the application process, the same theme came up when I heard about their experience at the company – that it is an inclusive and friendly company. Especially at a large FTSE 100 company, a culture that prides itself on equality and support for one another is so important. This is a space that I believe is optimal for graduates and people stepping into their early careers.

What I enjoy most about my stream: I really enjoyed my first placement as a Research and Insight Analyst. I would analyse data while utilising various technical systems and I would also listen to calls and create commentary on customer verbatims to see or hear first-hand what customers were thinking. This enabled me to upskill in both the analytical and creative worlds. I also found the opportunities to present very valuable. Public speaking is a skill that is transferable professionally and personally, and I have definitely improved in this over the course of my time at Centrica.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: The IDG followership training days at RMA Sandhurst were really fun. The IDG followership training was an opportunity for all 2021 graduates to come together, network, and work as a team to complete mental and physical challenges. We learned a lot about ourselves and each other so it was really enjoyable.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Stay true to yourself. Of course, work hard and put your best foot forward, but do not change yourself to impress people. Centrica is a company that is very inclusive and working here, all you need is to bring the best version of yourself every day. Don’t let fear or getting out of your comfort zone stop you from taking on new opportunities – your future self will thank you for it.

Joined: 2020

Stream: Engineering

Studied: MEng Chemical Engineering at University of Hull

Current Placement: Process Engineering at Centrica Storage Ltd

Why I chose Centrica: I wanted to work for a large-scale company that is pushing for change in the national energy transition, providing me the opportunity to work on projects that will have a meaningful impact on the public and the UK’s energy security.

What I enjoy most about my stream: The Scheme provides me with the training and opportunities to develop my skills as an engineer, while also helping me push towards chartered engineer status.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: Working on the Rough offshore gas platform, visiting RAF Spadeadam’s Research & Development test site, and the IDG Leadership training at Sandhurst Academy.

My one piece of advice to applicants: When it comes to your application don’t just focus on your knowledge and skills for your chosen field, but make sure that you truly agree with company’s core values and what it stands for. It is easy to learn new technical skills on the job, but much harder to change what you believe in.

Joined: 2021

Stream: Energy, Marketing & Trading

Studied: Mathematics at University of Bristol

Current Placement: Quantitative Analytics

Why I chose Centrica: After completing my dissertation on renewable energy, I found the industry fascinating. As one of the leading trading houses in the market, I was drawn to the EM&T graduate scheme. The EM&T graduate scheme offers the opportunity to rotate between three different business areas on the trading floor, each with different challenges. This allows you to learn about different business areas, so you can find the right one for you. The ability to learn from the best in each rotation was an appealing feature of the grad scheme.

What I enjoy most about my stream: The opportunity to work with many smart people in different areas of the business. This allows you to grow professionally. It is also great that you can fine tune the rotations, which allows you to really explore the business areas that you are interested in.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: Business trips to the Aalborg office (as EM&T is split between London and Aalborg). Also, the great people that you work with, a friendly work culture, and a great place to start your career.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Clearly convey why you’re interested in Centrica, EM&T and the programme specifically. Ensure you understand what EM&T does and how it relates to the wider business. Follow recent news releases and try to figure out their impact on the commodity markets in order to build a high-level appreciation of the factors affecting market movements.

Joined: I first completed a summer internship in 2018, then joined the graduate scheme in 2019.

Stream: Human Resources

Studied: History at Cardiff University

Current Placement: I have recently completed the Graduate Scheme and have secured a permanent role as a Leadership and Culture Manager. This is a new and exciting role which covers impactful topics for our organisation such as leadership, culture, diversity and inclusion, and organisational effectiveness.

Why I chose Centrica: I chose Centrica because it’s a company that I believe has strong values, supporting both colleagues and customers and has the ability to positively impact so many people in our society.

What I enjoyed most about my stream: The aspect I enjoyed most about the HR scheme was the ability to move around and try lots of different areas of HR and then when in those areas, having the opportunity to get involved and often lead on a variety of exciting projects.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme: Some of my highlights from the graduate scheme have definitely been when we have had the opportunity to get together as a wider graduate cohort, in particular at the IDG days. These days are particularly valuable, as you have the opportunity to connect with those on different schemes and are able to learn more about the wider business through these connections.

My one piece of advice to applicants: I would advise applicants to get involved with as much as they can, whether that being within their roles or outside of them. There is so much to get involved with which can be enriching in many ways and can also really useful for building your network. However, most importantly, I would advise just being yourself and sharing all the great things you have to contribute.

Joined: 2021

Stream: Commercial Analyst

Studied: Chemical Engineering at University of Manchester

Current Placement: Demand Side Response and Smart Energy Analyst

Why I chose Centrica: Centrica plays a significant role in our day-to-day life and it will have a significant role in our future, specifically in achieving our national net zero targets and averting the climate crisis. This is something that I am very passionate about.

What I enjoy most about my stream: The Commercial Analyst stream is very broad. Not just in terms of the areas of the business that you get exposure to but in terms of the job description. Depending on your preferences you can gain a wide variety of skills both technical and non-technical and I believe that it provides a great platform for future careers in different areas and specialties.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: There have been lots: leading my first project which involved sizing and pricing a 14 MW commercial solar project, winning a project that I led on and which provided direct value in revenue to the business, being involved with development of a new business function within British Gas, successfully bidding for and developing large scale hospital renewable infrastructure projects, writing and developing a brief to HM treasury to lobby for increased support for renewable energy development, as well as the various graduate events during the year - specifically the Sandhurst team building event where we all got together at Sandhurst Military Academy for some really interesting development days.

My one piece of advice to applicants: The best advice I can give is quite simple really - be curious and never be afraid to ask questions. It’s worked for me so far!

Joined: 2021

Stream: Business Management

Studied: Liberal Arts at Durham University

Current Placement: Services Strategy Analyst

Why I chose Centrica: I chose Centrica because I felt like there were opportunities to make an impact to real world developments. I also got the impression that there was a supportive and friendly environment in the company based on my assessment centre experience.

What I enjoy most about my stream: I really like the variety of options we get when choosing placements. There are opportunities to try out roles in different areas such as project management, commercial, strategy, etc.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: A highlight so far would be successfully completing my first placement as a Team Leader in one of our contact centres. It was challenging as it involved a good level of responsibility from the beginning but has improved my leadership skills and given me useful transferrable skills. Another highlight has been helping out with the Net Zero research in my second placement. Since it’s a new and forward-looking area, it’s been really interesting learning about its developments.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Be open to trying new things and making mistakes– there are a lot of opportunities on the Graduate Scheme to develop new skills and be put outside of your comfort zone, which I’m grateful for.

Joined: 2021

Stream: EM&T Analyst

Studied: MSc Applied Computational Science and Engineering at Imperial College London

Current Placement: I have recently rolled off the graduate scheme into a permanent position on the Environmental Products Trading Desk as a Trading and Origination Analyst (focusing on Compliance Carbon markets).

Why I chose Centrica: The interview process made it clear that they were serious about hiring for quantitative and commercial skills, with opportunities to use both throughout the graduate scheme. It was also clear that Centrica is a place where you can and should hit the ground running, with exposure to commodities trading from the start.

What I enjoy most about my stream: Every rotation has a cross-function aspect to it. There was never a point at which I was looking at a single aspect of trading in isolation. If you’re proactive and interested in how everything fits together then there is always more to learn.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: Taking trading strategy from design to back testing and optimisation, all the way through to execution.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Don’t stop learning once you start your career. You might be hired because you are strong in a specific skillset or professional/academic background, but you shouldn’t let that limit you to one single area of expertise.

Joined: 2021

Stream: Business Management

Studied: Liberal Arts at Durham University

Current Placement: Services Strategy Analyst

Why I chose Centrica: I chose Centrica because I felt like there were opportunities to make an impact to real world developments. I also got the impression that there was a supportive and friendly environment in the company based on my assessment centre experience.

What I enjoy most about my stream: I really like the variety of options we get when choosing placements. There are opportunities to try out roles in different areas such as project management, commercial, strategy, etc.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: A highlight so far would be successfully completing my first placement as a Team Leader in one of our contact centres. It was challenging as it involved a good level of responsibility from the beginning but has improved my leadership skills and given me useful transferrable skills. Another highlight has been helping out with the Net Zero research in my second placement. Since it’s a new and forward-looking area, it’s been really interesting learning about its developments.

My one piece of advice to applicants: Be open to trying new things and making mistakes– there are a lot of opportunities on the Graduate Scheme to develop new skills and be put outside of your comfort zone, which I’m grateful for.

Joined: First joined in 2018 for Year in Industry placement, and returned in 2021 for Graduate Scheme

Stream: Business Management

Studied: Physical Geography at University of Leeds

Current Placement: Propositions Manager, Hive Commercial

Why I chose Centrica: I chose Centrica largely because of the great experience I had throughout my Year in Industry. I found a business full of welcoming, approachable and ambitious people, who I could learn from every day. I found myself surrounded by like-minded people with clear goals, and I recognised that it would be the perfect environment to grow.

What I enjoy most about my stream: My favourite aspect of the Business Management graduate scheme is the breadth of opportunity available across the rotations. From commercial positions to procurement, marketing, project management and plenty more, within the Business Management scheme you’re given the choice to experience a range of functions across the business and develop an extensive set of skills.

Some of the highlights of the graduate scheme so far: My highlight to date would be the opportunities we’ve been afforded to build relationships as an entire Graduate cohort. I enjoyed the Insights Discovery day, where we learnt about different personality types and how we can effectively communicate with others whose preferences may differ from your own. I also loved the two days spent at Sandhurst completing teambuilding activities and learning how to maximise your impact as a member of a high- functioning team.

My one piece of advice to applicants: My advice would be to make mistakes. Lots of them. It’s inevitable that you will, so do not be risk averse. Make calls that you think might have the potential to go wrong, but also have the potential to create a really great outcome. You’re not in each role for long and each will be over before you know it, so do everything you can to make real, positive, lasting change – and that comes through losing the fear of doing things wrong.