Graduate scheme leads to success for Hayley Dickinson

After successfully completing a sought after graduate scheme, Hayley Dickinson is now working as a Bid Project Manager at defence giant, BAE Systems.

Having a keen interest in business since an early age, Hayley Dickinson’s aspirations to work in a corporate environment and to “truly make a difference to the future of our world” began whilst studying for her degree in BA (Hons) Business Studies with Marketing at the University of Central Lancashire.

The course helped Hayley with a variety of essential skills including presenting, public speaking and team working, as well as how to deal with challenges and complex situations.

When asked to describe what stood out for her whilst studying at UCLan, former Student Ambassador Hayley said: “My lasting memories will be meeting a diverse range of people and learning about different cultures. My favourite memories will be those of achieving high grades and the immense proudness I felt, as well as my graduation day when all my hard work paid off.”

Hayley’s hard work paid off in a big way.  Not only did she graduate with First Class Honours but after a tough recruitment process, Hayley secured a position with BAE Systems, one of the world’s largest defence and aerospace companies, heavily involved in the production of defence projects such as the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Talking about her journey, Hayley said: “My journey was a tough one. I faced a lot of prejudice and setbacks but I used this to motivate myself. I had always loved the prospect of working at BAE Systems and after making my application, I went through an intense recruitment process. I also graduated with a first-class degree which I believe is something that has contributed to my success today.”

Hayley Dickinson, BA (Hons) Business Studies with Marketing graduate
Hayley Dickinson, BA (Hons) Business Studies with Marketing graduate

"My lasting memories will be meeting a diverse range of people and learning about different cultures."

— Hayley Dickinson, BA (Hons) Business Studies with Marketing graduate

Following her success on the Commercial Graduate Scheme, Hayley was appointed as a Project Manager, during which time she worked on a variety of projects including; working at an RAF base providing front-line contractual support, as well as completing a six-month secondment to the Applied Intelligence Business Unit, working on strategic Government bids.

Hayley said: “Within 18 months of joining BAE Systems, I have been able to work alongside our partners and customers, collaborate internationally and be part of a team winning a successful strategic bid. The company has allowed me to have responsibility and be accountable from the outset, which has been paramount to my personal development.”

“As I ended the graduate scheme, I was presented with a multitude of opportunities and roles to exit in to. It is an exciting time to be working in the industry, and I know that I’ll be continuing to learn for the rest of my career.”

Hayley summarises how UCLan has transformed her life: “Before going to University I thought I couldn't achieve a pass let alone a First but I put my mind to it and achieved it. The only opinion that matters is your own. If you enjoy something or want to do something go for it because you will thank yourself later on. Don't follow the crowd and be yourself!”