SIGMA PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Once your application form has been successfully screened you will be asked to complete numerical and verbal reasoning psychometric tests online. This will be followed by a telephone interview and finally a 2 day assessment centre.
YOUR BUDDY
You'll be assigned a buddy prior to joining Sigma. Your buddy will be a current Sigma, who will help you settle in and the transition onto the programme.
YOUR SIGMA MANAGER MEETING
An initial meeting with the Sigma Manager will help set your expectations on the way ahead. In assessing your skills and experience the Sigma Manager will be able to advise you on potential placement options and help you to begin to create your personal development plan.
PLACEMENTS
You'll spend at least three years on placements within the business, each lasting between six and 18 months. The first placement is likely to last six months. Later placements are longer, enabling you to take on greater role responsibility. You’ll be also encouraged to undertake an international placement, these typically last 12-18 months.
MENTORS
As a Sigma, you’re encouraged to source both a corporate and functional mentor who will help to guide you through your career and development.
YOUR INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Right from the start we’ll work with you to produce a career development plan, which outlines your skills and experience to date together with your plans for the future both on Sigma and beyond. This document structures your Sigma training and development.
WORKSHOPS
Managed by a Sigma member and supported by the Sigma Manager, these workshops provide invaluable opportunities for the Sigma community to share learning experiences in the spirit of continuous improvement. Workshops take place three times a year and also serve to strengthen the Sigma network.
APPRAISALS
Each Sigma is formally appraised every six months. Salary increases are determined by these assessments.
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Our future leaders need to develop awareness of different cultures (in both business and national terms), value diversity and empathise with global customers to build strong relationships. Consequently, you'll be encouraged to pursue opportunities that will increase your multi-cultural experiences. These might include working in or leading multi-national teams, or working overseas as part of a placement.
YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT
After three years for Business Sigma, and three and a half years for Engineering Sigma, you'll move into your first executive appointment within BAE Systems. However, this is just the beginning.
