Career-related frequently asked questions
General career FAQs
What does BBD do?
BBD is a leading custom software solutions company that provides end-to-end solutions to large enterprises and smaller scale-ups alike. We offer digital enablement, software engineering and solution support as our core services, which includes data science, cloud enablement, and integration and automation. Overall, BBD is tech agnostic, using the depth of our knowledge and skills to implement the best solution for each client environment. All this means that BBDers have the opportunity to work on a range of interesting and meaningful projects, in different technology stacks across numerous sectors – adding undeniable value and changing lives through technology.
What sectors does BBD have experience in?
From large multi-national corporations and government institutions to small flexible businesses, we have experience creating solutions for companies in the financial services, insurance, gaming, telecommunications and public sectors to name a few.
Who are some of BBD’s clients?
BBD works with a large variety of clients including the likes of ABSA, Discovery Bank, Metfriendly, Deloitte, ShiftTech, Vodacom, CIPFA, Element22, Right ePharmacy and the Department of Home Affairs. You can have a look at some of our client work here.
How many people does BBD employ?
We are proud to have over 1 200 experts across our 5 global hubs, including software engineers, testers, analysts, system architects, application designers, digital strategists and tech-trend enthusiasts.
Ok, great! So where are you located?
BBD has offices in 5 countries: in South Africa, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Portugal and India. Check out our exact locations here.
How does BBD support upskilling?
Continuous learning is critical in our industry and we pride ourselves on our culture of supporting, encouraging and facilitating upskilling for all BBDers, at every stage of their career with us. Not only does this keep each person in our employ at the top of their game, but means that every team is best equipped to tackle the challenges inherent in what we do. We have an internal, gamified learning programme with an online learning hub, and facilitate online, external and further studies, training and certifications for our staff.
What are the key benefits of being a BBDer?
As a highly people-focussed business, we have meticulously crafted our working experience to offer all the perks that you might need to really thrive – from a hybrid working model to epic team builds, great coffee, wellness days, and much more! But the biggest benefit of being a BBDer is in the interesting challenges you work on, the incredible people you work with, and an unmatched culture. Check our location specific benefits here.
Bursar FAQs
What are the application criteria?
To qualify as a BBD bursar, you must be a South African citizen enrolled in or preparing to enrol in an IT degree at a recognised South African university. If you’re in Matric, you should have an average of 65% (weighted to maths, science and informatics). If you’re already a university student, your transcripts should show a minimum academic average of 65%.
How can I get the edge against other students who apply for this bursary?
While we seriously consider your academic record, we are also interested in finding talented students who show a passion for technology. So, show off some of the tech-related projects you’ve been working on in your own time!
What happens after I apply?
After you apply our team carefully reviews each application. Selected candidates will be contacted to take a technical assessment, and should they pass, will move on to an interview before being awarded a bursary.
Is there an application closing date?
Yes. Applications are open from the 1st of May to the 30th of November.
Why should I choose BBD for a bursary?
BBD really is the place to be! As an international software solutions company, you will have access to top tech experts from around the globe, and to events like our annual tech conference, Escape. Our Bursary Programme also feeds into our Grad programme so ultimately, you’ll become a BBD grad and really put your passion to purpose as a junior software engineer!
Click here to find out about our Bursary Programme
Grad FAQs
Who is eligible for the Grad Programme?
Passionate recent graduates with high academic averages from recognised South African universities with degrees in computer science, engineering, IT, or related fields. We have tracks in the programme for software engineers, UX/UI designers, and business analysts.
What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll need to have an updated CV, a copy of your ID document, as well as copies of your matric certificate and your latest academic transcripts. Showing a portfolio of your tech-related passion projects goes a long way, too!
What happens after I apply?
After you apply, our team carefully reviews each application. Successful candidates will be sent a coding challenge. Pass this and you’ll move to a virtual interview. Succeed there and you’ll receive a formal offer.
What’s the essence of being on BBD’s Grad Programme?
Our programme is geared to help you bridge the gap from university to the working world, but the most important thing to know is that you are a junior BBDer working on real client projects from day 1. Throughout the year you’ll work on client teams, level up your tech skill, and dive into hands-on learning. Break and fix things, all while having a blast!
What is the application closing date?
Applications remain open throughout the year but the programme commences in January of each year.
