Strategic Planning Graduate Scheme

Strategic Planning Graduate

Organisation - HR Director
Job - Strategic Planning
Position Type - Full Time

This vacancy is an exciting opportunity to join TfL’s Graduate Scheme.

Candidates are reminded to ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria for this scheme before submitting an application. The eligibility requirements are detailed below, and applicants are encouraged to read them carefully. The application process also includes a series of questions designed to confirm eligibility. It is important that these questions are read and answered carefully, as errors cannot be corrected once the application has been submitted.

Please Note: Only one application is allowed for any TfL Graduate Scheme per year. Any additional applications will be withdrawn.

Shaping London’s future

This role offers the opportunity to shape London’s future. TfL is looking for individuals who are passionate about supporting the sustainable growth of London and making it a more attractive place to live, work, and visit.

The starting salary for this role is £31,000, rising to £32,250 in the second year.

The role is based in London, with hybrid working arrangements.

Note: Hybrid working for this role provides flexibility, with a balance of 50% of time spent between the office and home over a four-week period. However, hybrid arrangements may be subject to change based on business needs.

This role comes with a range of excellent benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Free travel on the TfL network for the employee and a nominee who lives in the same household.
• A final salary pension scheme.
• Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
• 30 days of annual leave (pro-rata dependent on role), in addition to public and bank holidays.
• Access to discounted private healthcare schemes.
• A tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
• Retail, health, leisure, and travel discounts.

This is a two-year graduate scheme.

Applicants must have achieved a minimum of a 2:2 degree in any discipline.

The scheme is scheduled to start on 8th September 2025.

TfL’s Professional Services teams focus on the employees at the heart of the organisation. The Strategic Planning Graduate Scheme offers participants the opportunity to influence the wider business, London’s transport network, and London itself.

Sustainability is a key value at TfL, which strives to operate in a manner that protects and regenerates the natural environment. As part of the Strategic Planning Graduate Scheme, participants will gain an understanding of how TfL operates sustainably and how it is planning for a sustainable future in London.

The two-year development programme consists of four placement rotations. These rotations are designed to equip participants with a diverse range of skills and experiences necessary for a successful career in strategic planning.

Graduates will have the opportunity to work with a variety of teams, including Strategy, Spatial Planning, Local Communities and Partnerships, and the Chief Customer and Strategy Office. Placements are tailored to the interests of each participant, ensuring a unique and personalised experience. Below is an example of potential placements:

This team is responsible for setting the strategic direction of London’s transport. Participants may work on projects such as developing the strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions for road transport by 2030, planning the delivery of London’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, or improving the safety and efficiency of freight transport in London.

Responsibilities include:

• Commissioning and conducting research, analysing data, and engaging with internal and external stakeholders.
• Developing evidence-based policies or scheme options and providing advice on specific areas of focus.
• Drafting reports, briefings, and presentations to influence decisions related to policy and project development.

This team focuses on engaging with London’s communities, businesses, and political stakeholders to understand their needs, perspectives, and concerns.

Responsibilities include:

• Supporting local engagement activities and researching key local policy areas.
• Strengthening relationships with local politicians and community leaders.
• Assisting with consultations on major initiatives, such as bus network changes, new tube lines, the Congestion Charge, and ULEZ.

Participants will also work with the leadership team to propose new projects and initiatives aimed at engaging with underrepresented community groups, young Londoners, and seldom-heard voices.

This team works to integrate land use and transport planning, addressing challenges such as achieving net-zero emissions and solving London’s housing crisis.

Responsibilities include:

• Developing and influencing policies, securing third-party funding, and planning for the regeneration of London’s neighbourhoods.
• Shaping the London Plan and other local area plans to promote sustainable development and reduce carbon emissions.
• Advocating for transport investment by making compelling cases to government and stakeholders.

This placement provides an opportunity to shadow the Chief Customer and Strategy Officer.

Responsibilities include:

• Learning about governance processes and supporting Boards and Panels.
• Preparing briefings, reports, and correspondence.
• Collaborating with offices across TfL and the Greater London Authority.

Participants have the opportunity to complete the Transport Planning Society (TPS) Professional Development Scheme, supported by TfL. Completing this scheme leads to the "Incorporated Transport Planner" (incTP) designation and satisfies the knowledge requirements for the Transport Planning Practitioner (TPP) qualification.

Graduates of this scheme often move into roles such as:

• City Planner
• Business Strategy Planner
• Engagement Officer
• Strategy & Problem Solving Officer

Participants will receive extensive training and support, including:

• Placement Manager: Provides day-to-day management and development support.
• Scheme Sponsor: A senior manager offering technical and professional guidance.
• Buddy: A graduate or apprentice providing mentorship and advice.
• Development Adviser: Offers career coaching and guidance on progression within TfL.

TfL values candidates who:

• Care about their colleagues, customers, and work.
• Are Open to collaboration, new ideas, and teamwork.
• Are Adaptable and willing to embrace innovation.

The application process includes five stages, with online assessments requiring completion within an allocated timeframe. Candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the process.

TfL operates a transparent recruitment process, removing barriers for disabled candidates. TfL is a Disability Confident employer and guarantees interviews for eligible candidates who meet the minimum criteria.

For further information:

• Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:30)
• Email: EarlyCareersCampaigns@tfl.gov.uk

Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments are encouraged to contact the recruitment team.