UK, Middle East and Asia Graduate Programmes 2024

What was your journey prior to FGS Global and how did you hear about the firm?

Having studied Politics at university, I wanted to build a career in something relevant to current affairs, but not something which would get me directly involved in politics itself. I had also developed an interest in economics and had always had an interest in media. Communications is great because it intersects between all three. While I’d completed some internships I only came across FGS Global’s graduate programme a few days before applications closed, finding the application portal on a jobs website which showed various agencies and firms who offered potential grad programmes – I applied and have never looked back since!

How did you find the application process?

FGS Global’s assessment process was the best that I took part in. The variety of tasks we were asked to complete allowed for a comprehensive introduction into what you may be expected to do when starting the job, and raised my confidence prior to joining as I already felt I had been tested on many things that you would end up doing. The initial task, for instance, was not simply sending off a cover letter – instead challenging us to provide a PowerPoint or video with our views on a reputation issue that a company of our choice was facing, and some first responses that we thought were best to give. Competency was again brought out at the assessment centre, in both individual and group tasks, while we also had more traditional interviews discussing a range of subjects.

Did the process reflect what you are doing now that you are in role?

The fact that the process brought such interaction with the nature of the job was insightful and confirmed my interest in the industry as a whole. The FGS Global application process allowed me to learn several things about what we actually do and how we do it – which helped to refine my interest and skills. I feel that FGS really looked into personality and values, which was important to me and vital for the nature of the job now that I am here. I came home from the final-stage and in-person assessment centre knowing that, if nothing else, it had been a good day – largely thanks to the hospitality and time of everyone involved in the assessment process and the current grads and applicants. Even if you don’t get it, then – it’s a fantastic process to be involved in to discover more about strategic communications.

What is your top tip for applicants for the programme in 2024?

Be enthusiastic and authentic! I’ve hinted at it in the answers above but it’s basically a given that you’ve got to be passionate in each of the stages. Show that you’re interested in the industry, demonstrate curiosity to learn more about the firm and our work, and engage those in the room with you. At the end of the day, it isn’t about getting through the process – it’s to help you work out if this is what you want to do on a daily basis. The process is there to help you find that out so that you’ll enjoy learning, getting stuck in to the work and having some fun in between it all. So in short - show your interest, ask questions, and demonstrate some creative thinking!

What was your journey prior to FGS Global and how did you hear about the firm?

I studied international relations and history at SOAS, University of London and after graduating, interned for a couple months with the UK Civil Service, at Defra. I then went on to work in the chemicals industry as a communications officer in Dubai. My passion for politics and public affairs led me to explore opportunities in the private sector. I came across the strategic communications industry and was immediately captivated by its prominent role for key players in the global economy. It became my goal to work at the heart of this dynamic space, and FGS Global’s International Graduate Program was exactly that and the perfect fit for me.

Tell us about a typical day

Working on high-level, exciting projects at an esteemed organization means that no two days are the same. Things can move quite quickly because we’re strongly intertwined with media and global affairs, so I find myself constantly focused and mentally stimulated. Some of my daily tasks include putting together reports with summaries of key news articles relevant to our clients, to ensure they are well-informed about conversations important to them. I also conduct deeper analyses of media coverage regarding major international affairs and events, deep diving into sentiment, themes, and trends. I’ll also contribute to strategic planning to help clients get their message heard by meaningful stakeholders, with utmost impact.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?

Despite having joined only recently, I find it incredibly fulfilling to already have contributed to work with profound global impact. I'm also amazed by the amount of knowledge, valuable skills, and heightened global awareness I've absorbed from the talented individuals and dynamic projects here. I've had the opportunity to explore a range of topics and sectors, including the sports industry, environmental concerns, government affairs, finance, and more.

How would you describe yourself as a member of the team?

As a team member, I believe in delivering high-quality work, helping others, and making things more efficient, all while maintaining a positive outlook. I hope that my colleagues would describe me as helpful, diligent, and positive. These are characteristics that I have developed further from my brilliant and inspiring colleagues.

What do you think is special about FGS Global?

Without a single doubt, it would be the people and culture. My colleagues are some of the most intelligent and supportive people I’ve met, they’re rooting for you at every step! The culture at the firm is vibrant, challenging and highly motivating. Every day, I’m driven to bring my best self to work and consistently gauge opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What was your journey prior to FGS Global and how did you hear about the firm?

I studied law at the University of Liverpool before finishing my studies at King’s College London with a Masters degree in International Relations. I then went on to work in local government for a year before applying for the graduate programme. I had always been deeply fascinated by the interplay between the private sector and the political world so the opportunity to work at this intersection was naturally the next step in my career. Working at FGS Global has lived up to my every expectation, with access to world class clients and constant dialogue with policy makers at the cutting edge of the most important issues of the day.

Tell us about a typical day

There is no one typical day at FGS Global, with each new day bringing a different set of challenges and ways to grow as an advisor. Depending on what is happening in the media or the world of politics that day, things can change incredibly fast, so you have to be agile and responsive to the world around you. Throughout the day I will produce concise summaries of the most important news stories and government announcements, in-depth analysis of the latest think tank reports and briefing notes on both journalists and political stakeholders. This is all in addition to liaising directly with clients and advising them on how to position their business in light of the latest breaking story.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?

Working at such a prestigious company means we have direct access to the key players in business, politics and the media. This not only helps to expand my own personal network, but it is also a great opportunity to learn from the best in the business and get under the skin of some of the largest companies in the world. Also, who could forget the fantastic people at FGS Global who make the company what it is. The team spirit and culture have meant I have made friends for life.

How would you describe yourself as a member of the team?

I would hope that my colleagues would describe me as hard-working, attentive and caring. However, I believe you could easily look at every FGS Global employee and use these same adjectives given how brilliant our teams are both in their jobs and as people.

What do you think is special about FGS Global?

The firm is always pushing you to grow as an advisor. From day one you will be supported and encouraged to grow your skills, network and all-around ability as an advisor to the biggest companies in the world. Your colleagues are always supportive and want to see you succeed and grow both professionally and personally.

What was your journey prior to FGS Global and how did you hear about the firm?

I studied History at the University of Cambridge and gained experience in financial services through my prior role in Deal Advisory at PwC. I applied to FGS Global eager to gain more of an intersectional understanding of finance and politics. I also wanted to be in an industry which strengthened my written and verbal communication skills, and allowed me to take greater ownership of the work I was doing.

Tell us about a typical day

Every day is completely different from the last, and even though I was told this during the application process, I never imagined being in such a dynamic role. Stories in the media are fast-moving and my days reflect that. Some days I work on media summaries to keep my clients up-to-date, support them with research, or draft briefing notes for journalist meetings. I have also been involved in crisis work, where the ask can be anything and everything.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?

I really value the variety in my job – it always keeps me engaged, challenged and learning. My clients span various industries, which means there are always interesting challenges to learn from. In the short time I have been here, I have worked with clients in the telecommunications, consumer, and media sectors.

How would you describe yourself as a member of the team?

I believe I am an ambitious and keen member of my team, always willing to take on new tasks and help whenever needed. I believe I have quickly integrated myself FGS Global more broadly. My aim is to carry on with a positive attitude and maintain my eagerness to learn as I progress throughout my career.

What do you think is special about FGS Global?

Definitely the people! FGS Global has some of the most intelligent, curious, and intellectual people I have come across. It creates for an incredible environment where I feel challenged and supported. It also means that I am constantly learning from colleagues and every day I leave the office with more knowledge and skills than I started with.

What was your journey prior to FGS Global and how did you hear about the firm?

In my final university summer I interned at one of FGS Global’s clients. The Director of Communications suggested I should get some experience working with an agency and introduced me to FGS. I spent a few days shadowing the client team, which I found fascinating, and was then invited to apply for a role in my final year of university. I joined FGS Global a month after graduation and have been here ever since!

Tell us about a typical day

A typical day at FGS Global is spent at our office in central London. We describe ourselves as the “eyes and ears” of our clients, and the top priority at the start of the day is ensuring clients are updated on relevant news and developments that affect them. The rest of our time is spent on a huge variety of different things – from research, brainstorming, meetings with clients or journalists or attendance at events.

What is your favourite aspect of the job?

One of my favourite aspects of the job has been the opportunities I’ve been given to travel. For example, over the years I’ve attended events with FGS Global colleagues in Germany, and last summer flew to New York to work on an internal project with colleagues from the US and Europe. Being able to travel to other offices has enabled me to forge connections with colleagues around the world, and unlocked opportunities to work on international projects – which I think is a real bonus!

How would you describe yourself as a member of the team?

I’m a dedicated and involved member of the team. Whilst hugely rewarding, working in such a fast-paced and high-stakes industry can have its challenges, and I like to think I approach any situation with as much practicality, enthusiasm and humour as possible.

What do you think is special about FGS Global?

The most special thing about FGS Global is without a doubt its people. Our colleagues have backgrounds in a huge range of sectors, from law, finance, journalism and much more, which means the company is essentially a huge melting pot of opinions, perspectives and expertise. I learn something new every day, and it’s a real privilege to be around such an interesting and engaging group of people.