IT Architecture Graduate Scheme

**Scheme summary**:

- ** Salary**:

- £30,987 + up to 10% annual bonus + annual pay reviews
- ** Start date** - September 2026
- ** Scheme length** - 3 years
- ** Location**- Stratford-upon-Avon (with hybrid working)
- ** Criteria**- minimum 2:2 degree in a IT, Computer Science, or a closely related technical discipline.

**About the scheme**:
At NFU Mutual, our IT division plays a pivotal role in driving the success of our business. From delivering exceptional service to spearheading innovation, we’re at the forefront of technology and transformation. Our teams lead ambitious projects, such as transitioning to Cloud services, enhancing our cybersecurity, and developing digital customer solutions - all while delivering an annual change portfolio worth over £80 million.

We are looking for an ambitious and inquisitive IT graduate eager to launch their career. Our dynamic three-year graduate programme is your gateway to becoming a future IT Architect. Here, you’ll gain hands-on experience across diverse technical domains, develop an in-depth understanding of how our business thrives on technology, and sharpen your professional skills in real-world projects.

From collaborating with talented colleagues to solving meaningful challenges and working to regulation standards, you’ll build essential skills in teamwork, communication, and problem solving. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to make a tangible impact, grow your confidence, and shape the future of our business—all while being supported every step of the way.

**What you can expect**:
You’ll rotate through teams such as Enterprise, Technical, and Information Architecture, collaborating with Cyber & Security experts. You'll be:

- Designing and improving IT services such as communications, networking, and security
- Working with colleagues across IT to understand how our technical framework supports the business
- Helping deliver smooth, safe releases of new technology
- Building technical knowledge, develop problem-solving skills, and play a key role in delivering reliable services for our customers. To enhance your career, you’ll also work towards professional IT qualifications and certifications as you learn and progress. This programme is designed to develop you into a future IT Architect, giving you technical breadth, business insight, and professional skills to succeed.

**How your role will evolve**
- **
Year 1**- Begin with a six-week IT Helpdesk placement, supporting colleagues and customers to see how technology underpins the business. Rotate through Infrastructure, Security, and Data/Integration teams, gaining hands-on experience. Conclude the year with a six-week overview of all Architecture disciplines, including Enterprise and Solution Architecture, building a strong foundation for your career.
- ** Year 2** - Rotate through the four key architecture domains—Infrastructure, Security, Systems, and Information—spending around three months in each. During this year, you’ll also prepare for the TOGAF Foundation certification, giving you a solid grounding in architectural principles.
- ** Year 3**- Focus on two architecture domains of your choice, such as Infrastructure and Security or Systems and Information, spending six months developing deeper expertise in each.

Across all three years, you’ll contribute to transformative projects—modernising legacy systems, expanding SaaS adoption, and working with cutting-edge technologies that drive innovation across the organisation.

**Your Future**
We’re a collaborative, inclusive team that values curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning. Graduates thrive here by bringing fresh perspectives, asking great questions, and tackling real challenges. We celebrate diverse thinking and support each other to grow—professionally and personally. From day one, you’ll benefit from mentoring and coaching from senior architects, plus the support of a strong graduate network. You’ll join regular development sessions, and as you near the end of the scheme, a careers coach will help plan your next steps—whether that’s becoming a technical specialist or moving into leadership.

It’s not all about technology and certifications. You’ll also get involved in volunteering, charity, and social activities, and represent NFU Mutual at industry events. These experiences, part of our ESG commitments, broaden your skills while giving something back.

**Application Process**
If shortlisted, you’ll complete an online assessment designed to measure potential for success, including your ability to learn and solve problems. Successful applicants will then complete a short video interview, followed by an in-person assessment centre with a group exercise, role-specific exercise, and skills-based interview. Assessment centres will be taking place W/C 5th January 2026.

**What we're looking for**:
To join this scheme, you need a minimum 2:2 degree (achieved or predicted) in IT, Computer Science, or a closely related techn