12-Month University Placement (2026-27) HR Partner Support Intern

Introduction

At IBM Human Resources & Talent Transformation, we reimagine the way people work by combining AI, data, and human-centred design. Our teams help close skill gaps, modernize HR models, and create engaging employee experiences at scale. Working in HR at IBM means bridging technology and people, streamlining processes, driving agility, and enabling leaders and employees to thrive. You'll collaborate across the business to shape the future of work. With continuous learning, career growth, and a culture built on empathy and innovation, IBM offers the opportunity to make a real impact on organizations and people worldwide.

Your Role And Responsibilities

Please apply using the application form instead of your CV.

• Applications open: Tuesday 3rd February – Tuesday 10th February 2026
• Assessment Centres: Late February / Early March 2026
• Start Date: June 2026

Want to kickstart your career and make your mark in the world of Human Resources? Join IBM's HR University Placement scheme and gain hands-on experience at the forefront of HR transformation. This 12-month placement is perfect for motivated, curious, tech-savvy students who want real responsibility, real impact, and real development, contributing to HR projects and seeing how a global organisation operates.

What’s in it for you?

• Work on meaningful HR projects that directly impact and shape employee experience.
• Build in-demand skills in data, communication, project management, and tech-enabled HR operations.
• Explore different areas of HR and discover your strengths.
• Access online learning tools, training sessions, and development opportunities designed to help you grow.
• Be supported by two managers plus a network of Early Professionals and HR colleagues.
• Make connections across the business with leaders, interns, and teams from every area of IBM.

What This Internship Involves

If you like understanding how things work, improving processes, and using tech to solve problems, this role is a great fit. You’ll help teams understand how HR processes work today and how we can do things better tomorrow. Use your curiosity, logic, and willingness to get stuck into challenges. Expect variety, people interaction, and opportunities to shape your own experience too.

Your Responsibilities May Include

• Managing inboxes, answering queries, and supporting HR communications.
• Creating and updating HR reports and dashboards.
• Supporting All Hands calls, learning sessions, social events, and internal activities.
• Handling sensitive employee information using IBM HR Systems.
• Supporting compliance activities.
• Coordinating organisational changes such as promotions and relocations.
• Note-taking, meeting support, handover creation, and project assistance.
• Mentoring other students, helping with volunteering initiatives, and representing IBM externally.

Tools & Skills You’ll Use

• Excel for analysis and reporting.
• HR data systems and IBM internal tools.
• Teams and shared mailboxes.
• Skills in reporting, organisation, compliance, communication, and collaboration.

Learning & Development

By the end of the year, you’ll develop skills in:

• Advanced Excel and HR systems
• Data Storytelling and analysis
• Project and Stakeholder management
• Professional Communication
• Problem-solving, teamwork, and professional behaviours

Collaboration & Culture

You’ll work closely with HR Business Partners, HR Operations, Talent teams, senior leaders, and community groups across the UK. You'll also join our Early Professional Community - known for being supportive, social, and collaborative. Occasional travel may be required for events or projects.

Competitive Benefits

• £25,000 salary
• 25 days holiday + public holidays
• IBM Rewards: discounts at major retailers
• Access to wellbeing, community, and volunteering opportunities.

Required Technical And Professional Expertise

This is an undergraduate position, and as such, you should meet the following criteria:

• Studying at a UK University
• Completing an undergraduate degree and on track for a 2:1 (minimum)
• Due to graduate in 2028 - you must return to university to complete your final year after placement.
• Live within a commutable distance of your base location (London or Manchester) as you will be required on-site for a minimum of 3 days per week.
• Eligible to work in the UK full-time for the duration of your internship (no visa sponsorship available).

Preferred Technical And Professional Experience

No preferred qualifications specified.