C.H.
Some 3rd hand info that might help. The pilots work 5 earlies (0630-1400) 3 days off 5 lates (1400-2300) +/- 3 off. With only 4 crews per a/c there is very little SBY cover, but with trusted colleagues there is not much roster change; however that may be effected by the size of the base; i.e number of a/c and routes etc.
Crews are trained in advance of a/c deliveries and thus go on contract (134euro per schedule block hour) until their a/c arrives. This is paid after the line training is finished. Upto that time you are on your own. Contract pilots can be based anywhere at any time, but preferences are noted. There is no guarantee of how much flying will be available on contract. The a/c arrives and they are offered a permanent deal with fixed base. With a/c arriving a such a fast rate the time on contract is likely ot be less than 6 months, but it is your choice to accept permanent employment or stay on contract if you wish. The latter allows you to choose your available duty days and work%.
They plan to open 2 new bases each year, quite a few non-UK, but their location is often last minute.
If you are type rated then you should need only an OCC, which takes 2 weeks or so at EMA.