NHS Wales General Management Graduate Programme

Growing talent. Strengthening leadership. Securing the future of NHS Wales.

The health and care challenges of tomorrow require exceptional leaders today. The NHS Wales General Management Graduate Programme is a national leadership development programme designed to attract, develop and retain the next generation of compassionate, capable and ambitious leaders who will shape the future of health and care across Wales.  

For NHS Wales organisations, the programme provides a strategic pipeline of diverse leadership talent, supporting succession planning, workforce sustainability and organisational transformation. Our graduate trainees bring fresh perspectives, energy and innovation, contributing directly to service improvement while developing the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to become future senior leaders.  

For aspiring leaders, this is more than a graduate scheme. It is an opportunity to build a meaningful career that makes a difference to the lives of people across Wales. Through paid employment, real-world experience, leadership development, mentoring and placements across NHS Wales, graduates gain unrivalled insight into one of the largest and most complex organisations in Wales.  

Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable NHS Wales workforce; developing compassionate leaders who will improve services, inspire teams and deliver better outcomes for future generations.

Be inspired:

How to apply  

There are several phases to the recruitment process  

• Application form 
• Online job focussed assessments and cognitive ability assessments 
• A video application 
• In person assessment centre (South and North Wales)  

Please note that progression through the recruitment process is not automatic; candidates will be assessed and shortlisted at each stage, and only those who successfully meet the required standard will progress to the next stage.

We're looking for future leaders who share the values of NHS Wales and have the potential to make a positive difference to patients, communities and colleagues. 

Throughout the recruitment process, we'll assess candidates against our Graduate Success Profile, which includes a combination of: 

• Behaviours – how you approach situations and work with others. 
• Strengths – the things that motivate and energise you. 
• Potential – your ability to learn, grow and develop as a future NHS leader. 

We encourage you to take time to understand the programme, review the success profile, and reflect on your own experiences before applying. 

Preparing your application 

Taking time to prepare can make a real difference to the quality of your application. 

Before you apply 

✔ Check that you meet the eligibility criteria. 

✔ Read the Job Description, Person Specification and Graduate Success Profile. 

✔ Reflect on examples from your studies, work experience, volunteering, community involvement or personal achievements that demonstrate your skills and strengths. 

✔ Research NHS Wales and think about why a career in public service appeals to you. 

Top tips 

• Tailor your application to the Person Specification. 
• Focus on your achievements and impact, not just your responsibilities. 
• Use real examples to demonstrate your skills and potential. 
• Review each stage of the assessment process so you know what to expect. 
• Don't leave your application until the closing date.

Recruitment process

Ready to apply?

Before submitting your application: 

• Check the eligibility criteria carefully.
• Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
• Include details of your qualifications and achievements.
• Submit only one application.

Apply here: NHS Wales General Management Graduate Trainee | trac.jobs (Live link will be available shortly)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Additional resources

• NHS Wales General Management Graduate Programme 2024 - 2026 video
• Job Description - NHS Wales General Management Graduate Trainee – Band 6
• Graduate Success Profile

Webinars and university visits