After university, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do. I enjoy talking to people and I worked in sales for a little bit when I graduated, but it started to feel monotonous. I studied maths at university, but I wasn’t interested in finance, so when I saw some openings in commercial at BAE Systems, I applied.
After applying and learning more about the role, I found it wasn’t just spreadsheets; I’d be using skills I didn’t get to use a lot in my degree, and it was much more centred on interacting with people. I feel my skillset is used a lot more in this role than it would’ve been in other places.
I’m on a graduate programme where instead of placements, you’re in the job role for 18 months. I’ve enjoyed this as I feel it takes a while to get used to the role, and I’ve been able to get to know everyone and feel part of the team. I’m also glad I’ll get the chance to see a contract through its lifecycle.
My role in contracts is about making sure everything goes as it should. I work with project management teams and engineers to meet deliverables. I spend time interacting with customers and building close relationships.
I am also a member of the Tempest Early Careers Network (TECN), and I’ve jumped at the great opportunities that have come from TECN, such as graduate talks, and attending events, which have given me the opportunity to meet new people.
I’ve met so many people from across the Team Tempest partners. I’ve found that even though we’re from different companies, we all have similar working cultures.
I’ve been helping to plan events with TECN, which is outside the responsibilities of my day job. I really enjoy presenting but when it comes to events, it’s been a new challenge for me, but it’s been a lot of fun.
From my time so far on the graduate programme, I feel like I’ve picked things up quickly. I don’t feel confused in meetings by jargon, and I feel confident in my role. I’ve also got a lot better technically, I’ve learnt how to draft contracts, and my communication skills have improved. I was given some great advice to learn about myself more, which has developed my softer skills, and improved my understanding of myself.
We’re all really enjoying what we’re doing on FCAS, it’s an ever changing programme and there’s always some sort of change or movement happening; it’s really exciting.Yamin, Commercial Officer
We are on the hunt for the brightest and boldest minds to help us deliver technologies and ideas that will secure the future of combat air for years to come. Could this be you?