Graduate Area General Manager - Concrete

Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK.

We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We aim to promote a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement.

At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.

Graduate Opportunities at Heidelberg Materials UK

• Location: Cardiff
• Salary: £30,937pa
• Contract Type:  Fixed Term
• Working Hours: 40 hours per week

At Heidelberg Materials UK, we’re not just supplying heavy building materials we’re driving the transformation of the construction industry. Through cutting-edge innovation, a deep commitment to sustainability, and a focus on digital advancement, we’re shaping a smarter, greener future.

Our graduate programme – Area General Manager  

We’re recruiting for three exciting graduate pathways designed to fast-track your development into leadership roles

• Operational Site Manager
• Sales Management Trainee
• Technical Manager

This 12-month immersive programme offers hands-on experience, structured development, and a fast-track into roles with real responsibility. You’ll gain exposure to operations, commercial strategy, and leadership development, preparing you for future roles like Territory Sales Manager, Operational Site Manager, Technical Manager and ultimately Area General Manager

Structured Career Pathway

At Heidelberg Materials UK,  we don’t just offer jobs we build long-term careers.

From day one, you’ll follow a clear and structured development pathway, with defined milestones to help you grow your skills and progress confidently. You’ll be supported every step of the way by experienced mentors, dedicated managers, and a network of peers who are invested in your success.

Operational Site Manager

• Develop operational and health & safety skills aligned with our ‘Zero Harm’ goal

• Support continuous improvement in efficiency, productivity, and compliance
• Be based at an operational site to build broad expertise

Sales Management Trainee

• Deliver top-tier customer service and commercial performance
• Gain experience in sales reporting, competition compliance, and client engagement
• Prepare to manage your own territory

 Technical Manager

• Build knowledge and leadership capabilities across operations, commercial, finance, and strategy.
• Engage in cross-functional projects and strategic planning.
• Progress toward an Area General Manager role with exposure to senior decision-making.
• Build technical leadership capabilities across product development, quality control, customer support, and sustainability.
• Gain exposure to commercial strategy, operational excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Participate in strategic projects involving laboratory innovation, material optimisation, and customer engagement.

Mobility and Locations

You’ll have the opportunity to move within your area to gain valuable exposure, broaden your skillset, and work across different sites.

We’re committed to being transparent about location expectations throughout the recruitment process, so you’ll always know what to expect.

What We’re Looking For:

• Energetic and Proactive: You’re ready to jump in and make an impact from day one.
• Team-Oriented: Collaboration is key, and you’re always ready to contribute to the team’s success.
• Results-Driven: You have a practical mindset with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
• Adaptable and Curious: Flexibility and a willingness to learn are essential in this ever-evolving industry.

Entry requirements

We welcome applications from:

• Graduates in engineering, business, environmental sciences, or STEM subjects with a 2:1
• Internal candidates seeking career advancement
• Full UK Driving Licence

What You’ll Gain

• A structured development pathway with clear progression
• Exposure to senior leaders and strategic projects
• A supportive environment focused on mentorship, wellbeing, and growth
• Opportunities to make a real impact in a rapidly evolving industry

Next Steps

Submit your application

• Attach a cover and CV highlighting your qualifications, skills and experience, and reasons for applying to us.

Pre-recorded interview and online assessment

• If you are shortlisted, you’ll be invited to take part in a pre-recorded video interview and record your responses to a series of questions. This will help us assess your communication skills, motivation and how you align with our company values. You will also be asked to complete an online assessment to test your numerical, problem solving and technical skills.

Interview and insight day

• You’ll then be invited to an interview and insight day and be asked to prepare a 10-minute presentation on a relevant topic in advance, which will help us assess your research, communications and presentation skills. You will then attend an interview with two senior managers focusing on your skills, competencies and experience. Following the interview, you will have a chance to get a firsthand look at our industry and learn more about our business.

After the Insite day

• You will then joining our Graduate programme beginning in September. Good luck!

Join us on our graduate programme as we continue to push boundaries and create lasting impact across the built environment.