Auckland Council has officially welcomed 17 young Aucklanders to its new graduate programme.

Over 600 applications were received, with the successful graduates landing roles in various council departments including Information Services, Building Control, Planning, Community Development, Arts & Culture and Human Resources.

The two-year programme for students who have recently graduated with a bachelor or post-graduate qualification, includes a comprehensive training and development programme, experience working on different council teams and projects and a support team to guide them through their programme.

Auckland Council Chief Executive Stephen Town says the programme is designed to help develop our young people into Auckland’s future leaders and specialists.

“The programme works from both sides – our council will benefit from fresh ideas and the latest academic insights and there are many graduates out there eager to start their careers in Auckland, so let’s develop our talent rather than seeing them move overseas.”

Amy Bonham who recently graduated from the University of Auckland is starting with the Human Resources team.

“I was over the moon when I found out I was successful. I wanted my work to matter – to be more than just about profit, and the council has some great plans and goals. I’m really passionate about building performance and culture, but I also want to end up in a leadership position and the graduate programme gives me the chance to experience the whole HR offering.

“I know my friends have found it hard finding jobs without experience, so I feel very lucky.”

The programme is part of Career Pathways, run by council’s organisation development team and aligns with the Auckland Plan and The Southern Initiative through its focus on supporting high priority groups – young unemployed, Māori and Pacific people – into a job which is supplemented with training or a tertiary qualification.

ENDS

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