From Call Centre to Graduate Leadership Programme | Luke's story

Luke began his Severn Trent journey in the billing team before university and returned through the Graduate Leadership Programme. With placements across logistics, environmental projects, and procurement, he’s built confidence, skills, and a clear career direction.

As the first in his family to attend university, Luke’s story shows how Severn Trent supports growth at every stage.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey so far.

I’m Luke, and I’m currently part of Severn Trent’s Graduate Leadership Programme. My journey with the company began before University, when I spent a year working in the billing team at Pride Park. That experience gave me a strong understanding of the business and showed me how committed Severn Trent is to supporting professional growth.

After that, I studied Business Management at the University of Leicester for three years. I returned to Severn Trent through the Graduate Leadership Programme, which includes three placements across different areas of the business, each lasting nine months. One of the best parts of the programme is that you choose your own placements, allowing you to shape your journey based on your career interests.

I’ve worked in logistics within our Bioresources Team, supported project delivery in our environmental improvement program, and I’m currently finishing a placement in procurement and contract management. The flexibility of the programme has helped me explore different departments and connect with a wide range of people across the organisation.
 

What inspired you to join Severn Trent’s Graduate Leadership Programme, and where has it taken you?

After leaving the call centre, I knew I wanted to return to Severn Trent through the Graduate Leadership Programme. It’s well-respected and gives you the chance to work on meaningful projects from the very beginning.

Throughout the programme, I’ve developed a broad set of skills and gained valuable industry experience. It’s helped me build confidence and shape a clearer idea of where I want to take my career.

As I approach the end of the programme, I feel ready to take on more senior roles within the business, supported by the experience, knowledge, and relationships I’ve built.

What have you learned or achieved during the programme?

I’ve developed a wide range of technical and interpersonal skills across different areas of the business. But more importantly, I’ve gained the confidence to contribute meaningfully to a variety of projects and teams. The programme moves quickly, so you learn to adapt, build relationships, and make an impact from day one.

I would say Severn Trent places a strong emphasis on personal development. I’ve worked with a detailed development plan that helps me track my progress and make sure I’m always learning and improving.
 

What makes your story unique?

I started my journey in the call centre, and I’m the first in my family to go to University. That background has shaped how I approach opportunities and challenges. I’ve seen first-hand how accessible and supportive Severn Trent can be, and I hope my journey shows others that there’s no single path to success here.
 

What’s the best thing about working at Severn Trent?

The people. Across every placement, I’ve worked with teams who genuinely care about your development. Whether they’re part of your team or not, people are always willing to help.

One of the most valuable experiences has been the “Day in the Life” opportunities—where you shadow someone in a different role to learn about their day-to-day work. These have helped me build a strong network and gain insights into areas I might not have otherwise explored.
 

What does your future at Severn Trent look like?

I’m currently exploring opportunities as I near the end of the Graduate Leadership Programme. I’m particularly interested in procurement and contract management, but I’m keeping an open mind. The experience I’ve gained across different departments means I’m confident I can contribute wherever I go next.
 

Any advice for future applicants?

Reach out to people already on the programme — LinkedIn is a great place to start. I connected with alumni from my University who were part of Severn Trent’s graduate scheme and learned a lot from their insights.

Also, take time to understand Severn Trent’s values and the scope of work we do. Think about where your passions align with our mission. And most importantly—be confident. Show us how you can make a difference.