First Derivatives Graduate Program Interview Questions
& Process

The interview process began with a phone call, followed by an assessment centre. The assessment centre involved face-to-face interviews, group exercises, and numerical and reporting tests. Although it was similar to other assessment centres I've attended, this one was poorly organised. We arrived early but had to wait over an hour in a small, hot conference room with about 20 other candidates before anyone from HR greeted us. HR apologised, saying they were out at lunch, which seemed like poor planning. We were divided into four groups of five. One group had HR interviews, another had a group exercise, a third had a 30-minute logic test, and the last group waited in reception. The HR interviews were split into two parts: one about background and potential roles, and a second which was a pop quiz with unexpected questions. The group exercise was a typical problem-solving task with limited resources, but only one assessor who seemed disengaged, often on their phone. The logic test involved flow diagrams and seemed relevant for identifying potential software developers. Despite the disorganisation, I got the job, mainly because I needed it, which allowed me to focus on finishing my degree.

The interview process involved phone and face-to-face interviews, with three distinct rounds. It begins with a general phone interview covering your background and then progresses to be more specific to the role. The questions won't be overly difficult, focusing instead on understanding your grasp of the responsibilities involved.

I've only had the phone interview so far, and it was really in-depth. They asked me a lot of questions that I would usually expect in a face-to-face interview, but I think if you're prepared, you'll do fine.