Human Resources

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Developing People-Focused Leaders

Drive change and create measurable business value in our human resources, social impact, and corporate affairs functions through the FLEX program.

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Who we are

FLEX is Cisco’s full-time rotational program for new graduates interested in careers in human resources, social impact, and corporate affairs.​ In FLEX, you can FIND your passion and your community, LEAD your career and work, and EXPLORE the world of potential in Cisco.​​​​​​​​

The FLEX Emerging Leaders track is for those who have recently completed undergraduate degrees.​ The FLEX Rising Leaders track is for recent MBA and other graduate degree recipients with 4-10+ years of work experience.

Our values

At Cisco, our purpose is to Power an Inclusive Future for All. FLEX is a program of our People, Policy & Purpose (3P) organization, which includes our human resources, social impact, and corporate affairs functions. 3P ensures holistic care for the well-being of Cisco’s people, establishes Cisco as a trusted and valued partner to governments and global leaders, and extends Cisco’s reach to positively impact communities everywhere in alignment with our purpose.

Choose the right FLEX path for you

Emerging Leaders Track

The FLEX Emerging Leaders program is a full-time 3-year rotational program for recent college graduates that helps you jump-start your career in human resources, social impact, and corporate affairs. All majors are welcome.

Flexibility

The name FLEX is appropriate, because flexibility is at the heart of how the program is structured. You get a voice in designing your experience, so you can create a career path that matches your interests.

Managers pitch rotational opportunities, and you get to rank where you want to work.

Learn, Grow, Make a Difference

Because managers are competing for talent, the rotations feature meaningful work where you can develop business acumen while helping to solve interesting problems.

Be Supported

FLEX also has a strong support system to get you onboarded, connect with the people who can help you, and grow in your career.

See our FAQs, download the Emerging Leaders info sheet, or learn more.
Rising Leaders Track

The FLEX Rising Leaders program is a full-time 3-year rotational program for new MBAs and other graduate-level degrees that helps you accelerate your path to senior leadership in human resources, social impact, or corporate affairs.

Design Your Leadership Path

As a FLEX Rising Leader, you have a voice in designing your experience, so you can tailor your path to your leadership interests.

Managers pitch rotational opportunities, and you get to rank where you want to work.

Drive Meaningful Change and Impact

Because managers are competing for talent, the rotations feature leadership opportunities to drive meaningful change, have impact, and solve interesting problems.

Executive Visibility and a Strong Network

FLEX has a strong support system that includes regular one-on-one contact with the program's executive sponsors, as well as access to a 20-year strong network of alumni.

See our FAQs, download the Rising Leaders info sheet, or learn more.

“FLEX has provided me with the perfect kickstart to my career. Rotating through various functions and teams while being a member of a community of driven colleagues has afforded me a great amount of professional growth & development.”

Sarah P., HR Representative
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Discover the #WeAreCisco story and find out what we value most.

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Frequently asked questions

What does this team work on?

The FLEX program includes a series of three one-year rotations within Cisco’s People, Policy & Purpose (3P) organization designed to help Cisco develop a talent pipeline for future 3P leaders. 3P includes People and Communities; Sustainability; Social Impact and Inclusion; Government Affairs; Workplace Resources; Digital Impact Office; and Strategy, Development and Governance. While most rotations are within 3P groups, there are also occasional opportunities to work in Cisco’s business units.

Because managers pitch rotational assignments to FLEXers and FLEXers get to rank their choices, assignments feature meaningful work, opportunities to drive change, and the ability to contribute to some of today’s most cutting-edge business evolution.

When do FLEX applications open?

More information on the application process and timeline can be found here.

What does the FLEX interview process look like?

The interview process helps us get to know you, and helps you to learn about our people, culture, and business. We’ll evaluate your skills and experience against our current business needs. We’ll ask you about your academic and work experience, and you can ask questions, too. Be prepared to tell us about your achievements and the value you could bring to Cisco.

What skills do I need to have?

FLEX isn’t like other traditional rotation programs. Flexibility is at the heart of the program’s structure, and we work with FLEXers to help them design an experience that matches their interests. We’re not looking for certain majors or work experience as much as we’re looking for people-focused leaders who are creative, innovative, and collaborative and want to help drive change and have an impact at Cisco, in their communities, and around the world.

What locations are you hiring for?

The FLEX program is for US-based employees who will not require visa sponsorship. Most FLEXers work remotely, but they are welcome to go into a Cisco office if they are located near one.

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