Meet - IBM
At IBM, work is more than a job – it’s a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To collaborate. To think along with clients and sell. IBM’s greatest invention is the IBMer. We believe that through the application of intelligence, reason and science, we can improve business, society and the human condition, bringing the power of an open hybrid cloud and AI strategy to life! As an IBM apprentice, you’ll join a diverse team of professionals working on real projects and gain hands-on experience. Our award-winning programme offers a variety of roles at different levels, providing opportunities for growth and success in a supportive global workforce.
Skills we look for
What makes us a great employer
The 3 Pillars at IBM
We’re dedicated to helping you bring your best self to work, fostering an environment where you can grow, learn, and thrive. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a community that operates under 3 pillars which are integral to our company culture:
- We celebrate individuality
- We are passionate about curiosity in every IBMer
- We turn problems into possibility
Networks at IBM
You can join some of the many communities and social groups we have such as:
- Eagle (LGBT+)
- Girls Who Code
- BAME
- People with Disabilities
- Sports teams
IBM Rewards
Want cheaper cinema tickets and discount at high-street shops? You can take full advantage of IBM Rewards!
Enjoy social events
Make friends for life! IBM has around 20,000 employees in the UK, so there are plenty of social events going on in all locations!
Apprenticeships Details
Level 4 – JMC (Junior Management Consultant)
A Level 4 Junior Management Consultant apprenticeship is a work-based entry-level programme that teaches practical skills and knowledge for a career in management consulting. It’s equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and typically takes 18–24 months to complete.
The apprenticeship covers topics such as:
- Business analysis
- Project management
- Problem solving
- Personal management
- Communication
- Team working
- Relationship building
- Report writing
You’ll learn how to provide business advice to organisations, helping them solve challenges such as growing their business, improving efficiency, or restructuring. They may also:
- Conduct research
- Analyse and interpret data
- Organise project logistics
- Create slide decks to communicate with clients
- Identify risks and issues
- Create action plans to address issues
The apprenticeship is suitable for aspiring management consultants, junior management consultants and business advisors.
Level 6 – Design & Technology Solutions (IT Management for Business, software development)
A Level 6 design and technology solutions apprenticeship at IBM is a programme that combines academic learning with practical training to help learners become IT professionals.
What it is:
A Level 6 (Higher) Apprenticeship is a paid programme that combines working for an employer with a qualification equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
What you learn:
Apprentices learn to evaluate, create and support business solutions using digital technology. They also develop a broad set of skills and knowledge, including:
- Data analysis
- Data protection and legal issues
- Database system design
- IT project management
- Network infrastructure
- Systems development
What you can specialise in:
Apprentices can specialise in one of the following areas:
- Business Analyst
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Data Analyst
- IT Consultant
- Network Engineer
- Software Engineer
Applying for our Apprenticeships
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When you find a role that interests you, the first step is to complete your application online. To help us stay connected, we recommend that you join our talent network when applying.
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Real IBMers in the Early Professional Team, who are experts in screening resumes (CVs) and specialists in their respective fields, will read your application.
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This stage of the process is your chance to truly demonstrate your strengths and value to the role, providing a more comprehensive understanding of your qualifications and potential as a candidate.
These will differ depending on the role you are applying for!
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Assessment centres are a great opportunity for both you and us to get to know each other better. Don’t worry – we’re a friendly bunch! To prepare, research IBM and the area you are interested in, showcasing your enthusiasm for working with us.
You may be asked to participate in group exercises, designed to assess your skills and fit for the role. You may also attend an online interview on the day of the assessment centre.
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You may be requested to attend individual business interviews which involves a combination of job-related behavioural and situational questions, designed to gain a deeper understanding of your capabilities, prior experiences, and how you can contribute to the role.
This comprehensive approach helps us evaluate your strengths ensuring a more accurate assessment of your fit for the position.
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At IBM we keep you regularly informed of any updates to your application status along the way and if you would like feedback after an interview, we’re happy to help — just ask!
If successful, you will be contacted and you are then onboarded as an IBMer, leading the way in this new era of technology and solving some of the world’s most challenging problems.
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Need some extra support?
IBM is dedicated to hiring a diverse range of individuals and recognises the value this brings to the workforce. When candidates are invited to participate in an IBM assessment, instructions will be provided on how to request accommodations or adjustments. If you are a person with a disability, you can confidentially self-identify and provide details on your accommodation or adjustment request to complete the assessment process.
What does IBM provide during the assessment process?
- Assistive technology, such as screen readers, voice recognition software and alternative input devices
- Flexible testing arrangements, such as time limits or breaks
- Sign language interpreters or closed captioning
- Clear and concise instructions, as well as visual aids and examples
What our apprentices do!
The best part of being a UX designer here is seeing how design impacts the user experience. I get to solve real problems, whether it’s improving accessibility or streamlining a process, and it’s amazing to know that the work I’m doing makes a difference. Plus, the combination of creativity and strategy keeps things exciting.
My current role is a security role within the UK public sector – although it can be challenging, I love that I can see the real world work me and my colleagues are doing to move the country forward. IBM’s public sector clusters are huge and have their very own community feel, and so I would say I love the feeling I get for working on my project.
My role has given me the opportunity to grow not just professionally but also personally. I have strengthened my knowledge and learnt new skills that will help me to progress in my career as well as becoming so much more confident in myself as I’ve had to push myself out of my comfort zone to talk to key stakeholders and clients for my project team.
Currently, I serve within Cyber Security Services (CSS), where I collaborate with a partner to support our Bid and Proposal (B&P) initiatives, contributing to IBM’s strategic growth.
In addition to my role, I’ve had the privilege of leading the Apprentice Community (AC) for the past two years. This organisation fosters events, learning, and networking opportunities for our apprentice community across the UK. I have facilitated over 50 events, including a highly successful National Apprenticeship Week 2024, which garnered over 35,000 engagements. This work within AC has involved leading a team of 12–15 individuals across five locations throughout the UK and Ireland.
Behind the Scenes
What's it like to be an apprentice at IBM?
Information & Resources
