Graduate Programme Manager

Role overview

Union Maritime is embarking on a transformative journey to secure its next generation of leaders, with the launch of a landmark graduate scheme in Lagos and the immediate parallel build-out of a globally consistent programme in Singapore. The Graduate Programme Manager will serve as architect and operational lead for this high-profile, cross-regional initiative.

This role is central to our long-term talent strategy, requiring strategic vision, rigorous execution, and the confidence to engage senior stakeholders and diverse partner networks. Immediate priorities include executing the Lagos scheme launch in December 2025, managing recruitment for a September 2026 cohort, and ensuring the Singapore programme is designed and delivered to run alongside Lagos, mirroring our high standards and unified global approach.

Role specification

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of the graduate programme across Lagos and Singapore, managing all logistics, communications, and learning activities.​​
• Build and implement the parallel Singapore programme structure, ensuring complete alignment with the Lagos model and global standards.​​
• Act as the central point of contact for graduates, line managers, the governance group, and other stakeholders.​​
• Track progress, placements, and feedback; regularly report into HR and governance group, escalating risk or underperformance where needed.​​
• Drive graduate recruitment activities (applications, assessment centres, interviews), starting December 2025/January 2026 for a September 2026 start.​​
• Oversee four 6-month cross-business rotations per graduate, ensuring broad exposure and development.​​
• Implement a robust stakeholder engagement, training, and communications plan across all regions.​​
• Facilitate induction, onboarding, alumni activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.​​
• Ensure each graduate is mentored, challenged, and supported, with clear performance management and regular review cycles.

• Minimum 8 years' experience in HR, early careers, or graduate programme management, with direct responsibility for programme design, build-out, and delivery.
• Demonstrated expertise in project management for early career, graduate, or rotational talent initiatives.
• Preferably, experience managing large-scale programmes across multiple regions or in complex organisational environments.
• Proven ability to operate with high visibility, senior stakeholder engagement, and cross-regional coordination.​​
• Strategic thinker, excellent communicator, and skilled at driving alignment across diverse teams.​​
• Experience in the maritime sector or complex operational environment preferred, but not essential.​​
• Personal qualities: ambitious, proactive, adaptable, and committed to building a world-class leadership pipeline.
• Role begins December 2025 (immediate onboarding and operational plan handover).
• Responsible for recruitment campaign launch in January 2026.
• Lead assessment centre delivery and candidate selection in February 2026.
• Oversee full onboarding and induction for September 2026 graduate intake.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a driven individual to join a leading global shipping company at a critical juncture in its growth. You will be part of a forward-thinking, dynamic team and have the chance to shape the future direction of the company's commercial strategy.

At Union Maritime, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive, collaborative environment where talent is nurtured, and personal and professional growth is encouraged. If you are looking for a challenging, fast-paced role with the potential to grow and develop within an industry-leading organisation, we want to hear from you.