Graduate Programs Manager

SUMMARY OF ROLE

The Manager Graduate Programs is responsible for leading, designing, and managing ahlibank's graduate programs. The role requires working closely with senior management to align the programs with the Bank's strategic objectives, while ensuring effective delivery, stakeholder engagement, and measurable outcomes. The Manager will lead a team & act as the primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders and ensure that the programs build a strong pipeline of future banking leaders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Leadership & Strategy

· Design and execute a long-term vision for the Bank's graduate programs that supports future workforce and leadership requirements.

· Align program design and rotations with organizational strategy, succession planning, and critical skill development areas (e.g., digital banking, risk management, innovation).

· Introduce new frameworks, tools, and methodologies to enhance program impact and competitiveness within the banking sector.

· Regularly assess program relevance and effectiveness against business needs, adjusting scope and structure when necessary.

· Drive innovation in graduate learning experiences, combining classroom training, on-the-job rotations, mentoring, and cross-functional projects.

· Collaborate with HR and business leaders to ensure graduates are placed in roles where they add value and continue to develop after program completion.

· Act as the "program ambassador" internally and externally, strengthening the reputation of ahlibank as an employer of choice for top graduates.

Stakeholder Management

· Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with senior leadership, program sponsors, business line managers, and HR colleagues.

· Partner with universities, professional bodies, and external training providers to source high-potential graduates and deliver high-quality learning content.

· Influence and align stakeholders with program objectives, ensuring their commitment to hosting graduates, mentoring, and providing career opportunities.

· Manage expectations of diverse stakeholders, balancing strategic priorities with operational realities.

· Lead governance forums and steering committees for graduate programs, ensuring transparent communication, risk management, and timely decision-making.

· Actively gather feedback from stakeholders (graduates, line managers, executives) to improve program quality continuously and impact.

· Represent the graduate programs in external events, job fairs, and employer branding activities to position ahlibank as a top graduate employer.

Team & Operations Management

· Lead, coach, and inspire a dedicated program team to deliver operational excellence.

· Oversee end-to-end execution, including graduate recruitment, assessments, onboarding, placements, and career pathways.

· Ensure robust processes are in place for program planning, scheduling, and delivery across all graduate tracks.

· Monitor daily operations, resolve escalated issues, and ensure programs run smoothly within timelines and budgets.

· Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within the program team.

Performance & Reporting

· Define clear success metrics and KPIs for each graduate program (e.g., completion rates, graduate retention, post-program placements).

· Establish regular reporting mechanisms to senior management and provide data-driven insights on program outcomes.

· Track graduate performance and progression, ensuring visibility of top talent to business leaders.

· Use analytics to evaluate program impact and recommend strategic adjustments.

· Ensure compliance with internal audit, governance, and regulatory requirements in all reporting.

Performance & Reporting

· Define clear success metrics and KPIs for each graduate program (e.g., completion rates, graduate retention, post-program placements).

· Establish regular reporting mechanisms to senior management and provide data-driven insights on program outcomes.

· Track graduate performance and progression, ensuring visibility of top talent to business leaders.

· Use analytics to evaluate program impact and recommend strategic adjustments.

· Ensure compliance with internal audit, governance, and regulatory requirements in all reporting.

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT

· Bachelor's degree in business administration, Human Resources, or related field.

· Minimum 8 years of experience in Talent Management, HR Development, or Program Management, with at least 2 years in a Managerial role.

· Proven track record of managing large-scale talent or graduate development programs.

· Strong knowledge of learning & development practices, workforce planning, and leadership development