Who are GSK?

We are a science-led global healthcare company with a special purpose: to help people do more, feel better, live longer. You can find out more about us in this video. We're looking for talented, ambitious students and graduates to help us achieve this goal. Could it be you? Our Industrial Placements for undergrads offer you the chance to have real responsibility so you can make an impact on the business, as well as offering dedicated support and development opportunities to help you get the most from your time with us. Our graduate Future Leaders Programme will give you an extraordinary insight into how our business really works, coaching you in the skills you’ll need here, whilst challenging and stretching you constantly.

You can find out about both these opportunites at www.gsk.com/careers

Industrial Placements

Our Industrial Placement opportunities at GSK are exclusively for undergraduate university students who are taking a year out of their degree course to complete a work placement year in industry, and then returning to university for their final year before graduation.

When do applications for industrial placements open?

4 September:

  • R&D
  • Manufacturing and Supply Chain
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Procurement
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Communications and Government Affairs/Global Health

4 November:

  • HR
  • ViiV
  • Consumer R&D
  • Regulatory Affairs
  • Global Ethics and Compliance
  • Digital Communications

When do applications close?

Closing dates are likely to close from 4-6 weeks on average/rolling basis after opening.

Can I apply for more than one placement?

Yes, you can apply for more than one placement with us however we recommend you don’t apply to more than 4-5. You should complete the online assessment stage prior to submitting another application

What requirements do I need to apply for an Industrial Placement at GSK?

  • Legal Right to Work in the UK for duration of the placement
  • Undergrad who has completed a min of 2 years of a relevant degree, and returning to university after the placement to complete degree
  • Meet the degree requirements for the placement you are interested in applying for
  • Have permission from the University to complete an Industrial Placement (especially if it is not part of your degree course). 

How long is the placement and when will it start?

1 year and will start in summer of 2020. Start dates usually fall between June and September, depending on the role.

Future Leaders Programme

Our Future Leaders Programme offers graduates the opportunity through structured development with challenging experiences to gain the right capabilities to become a future leader in our growing global business. Firstly, you join one of our functions – you pick which one best suits your skills and aspirations – and have multiple rotations within that function. In this time, you’ll learn about our exciting business and contribute to significant work objectives. 

Whilst on the programme we’ll help you make a choice, listening to your preferences and looking at your performance; You can continue your path to deepen your expertise in your chosen area, or gain greater breadth of experience, potentially across different international geographies and functions; ultimately inspiring and leading others. Both are essential to our future business growth. 

When do you open for FLP applications?

We aim to open for applications on the 2nd October

How can I choose the career path that’s right for me?

Have a look at our quiz on the GSK website to see which career path will suit you best, read our brochure and see what graduates say about the different career paths.

What are the minimum requirements for entry onto the programme?

The requirements depend on the country and the career path that you’re applying to.

Can I still apply, if I don’t meet your minimum academic requirements?

If you have extenuating circumstances that have affected your grades, please let us know as we do take these into account.

What does the application process involve?

Watch this video guide to the process, explaining what you can expect each step of the way.

What kind of training can I expect as part of the programme?

70% on-the-job training, 20% learning through mentoring, coaching and feedback, and 10% via formal training courses. Watch our video for more information.

What’s the starting salary?

We offer a competitive salary and a TotalReward package which is designed to invest in you and your development, help you save for the future, and boost your health and wellbeing.

What role will I take on when the programme ends?

The role you take on will be a joint decision by your programme manager and your line manager, taking into consideration the opportunities available, business needs, your performance and your career aspirations.

Contact information for students: 

For questions about the Industrial Placements: Students can contact the team on: GSKPlacements@srgtalent.com or by calling 01582 310 451 

For questions about the Future Leaders Programme: Students can contact the team on: UK.EarlyTalentRecruitment@gsk.com 

Direct Entry

In addition to our Early Talent Programmes, we also have direct entry positions that are often suitable for graduates. Please encourage students to visit the GSK website at www.gsk.com/careers to view all open vacancies in the company. New positions are posted regularly.

Salary & Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Additional benefits include relocation, bonus, pension, healthcare and share scheme. For IP’s only it is the London Living Wage.