Careers

The TOP START International Business Leader Program

Accelerated career development for top talent.

With the TOP START International Business Leader Program we offer a unique opportunity for the best graduates from all around the world. Experience BASF from different perspectives and different regions while working on international, mission-critical projects. This program will bring you out of your comfort zone letting you grow as a leader every day. You will maximize your potential and develop yourself into a pole position for a successful general management career. We only offer this program to a very few exceptional talents per year.

What we expect:

Which responsibilities can you expect ?

Your opportunities to development:

 

We asked our TOP START participants and alumni what they like most about the program. Here's what you can look forward to with this program:

Be part of a strong global community
Connect with like-minded leaders positioned all around the globe. Leverage the TOP START alumni network to find exciting project opportunities and make friends to last a lifetime.
Make an impact from day one
BASF offers 1-year rotations for a reason: we hire top talent to take on responsibility, not to have you sit and watch what we are doing. Get onboarded, identify improvement opportunities and drive your own projects. You have 12 months, so take the chance and make it count!
Boost your leadership skills
- with top executive coaches at BASF’s exclusive training venue.
Learn how to master the latest sought-after executive skills in 2-3 day workshops together with your TOP START peers. These bi-annual workshops include topics like managing virtual teams, leading across cultures or fostering a digital mindset in your organization.
Experience an inspiring environment
Thrive in BASF‘s strong international community and bring your unique ideas into an environment that values different perspectives.
Enjoy personal support by your dedicated mentor
Have a senior executive as a partner to discuss and support your individual development path even beyond the rotational program.
Deep-dive into mission-critical issues with Board members and division CEOs
Exchange with BASF executives from all levels in regular management get-to-knows. The program’s steering council, two Board members and several division CEOs, handpick each individual TOP START candidate and meet on a regular basis to discuss your development and support your career with first-class management experience.
Go global!
Work close to the vibrant city of New York, explore the busy streets and jaw-dropping surroundings of Hongkong, or take time to marvel at Moscow‘s St. Basil‘s cathedral. Operating in more than 90 countries, BASF offers a plethora of exciting opportunities in the most attractive locations around the globe. A competitive delegate compensation package as well as great support with visa and housing from our experienced BASF team allow you to get the maximum out of your international endeavours.
Jump-start your leadership career
Learn what it takes to lead on a global scale and take on your first official leadership position right after the three-year rotational program. Take the driver‘s seat, inspire innovation and help us tackle the challenges of tomorrow!
Perfect fit: A program that suits you
Whether it's the location of your international assignment, the industry, the function, or a specific project - you can actively shape all aspects of your development. At the same time, it is important that the program also fits your life situation: For example, would you like to take your partner abroad with you? Or do you need childcare? Together we will find a solution for your personal needs.

The Recruiting Process - Overview

Recruiting process

The BASF Future Leaders Summit

FAQ

Our Top Start Alumni
Get to know our alumni and learn more about their career path with TOP START.