BA launches graduate IT recruitment drive

British Airways is trying to recruit some of the country's top graduates for a new 'IT Professional Programme' at the airline.

BA has 20 vacancies on the programme, which is open to graduates of any discipline as long as they have the skills and desire to work in IT. It is the first time in six years BA has run a campaign to recruit graduate IT talent.

The 18-month training period covers IT support, IT development and delivery, and business analysis. The graduates will get hands-on experience in the airline's information management department, working on projects ranging from crew rostering systems to website design.

Paul Coby, CIO at BA, said the programme would suit graduates of the new IT management for business degrees now being offered by several UK universities.

He said in a statement: "Individuals who have the ability to use technology to solve problems in business and public administration are essential for the needs of British Airways and UK plc in general and should be encouraged at all stages of their development."

Bill Francis, head of resourcing and skills at BA, said the graduates will get tailor-made training in a cutting-edge environment.

He said: "From leading edge technology such as Linux and web 2.0 to being involved in world class projects such as the development of Heathrow Terminal 5, this is an opportunity that any prospective IT professional cannot afford to miss."

Following the 18-month training period the graduates will be given permanent roles within BA, according to their skills and the airline's resource needs.

BA launched a separate recruitment drive last summer for 30 high-level project manager, business analyst and web design roles at its IT operation in Newcastle.