Graduate Programmes
Please note that applications for our Merchandising & Buying and Distribution Graduate Programmes are now closed. We are continuing to accept applications for the Finance Graduate Programme until 29th February 2012.
The Merchandising & Buying Graduate Programme
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Merchandising & Buying and Induction & Development
To give you the best start, you'll join us on a three month comprehensive induction with your graduate peers. Through a combination of classroom style learning, workshops, store visits and more, you'll learn both the people skills and technical know-how so you can make decisions about millions of pounds of inventory, and be in a position to influence the Company's profitability. You'll also get a buddy, a mentor and plenty of opportunities to start putting it all into practise so that by week 12, you're fully accountable as an Analyst. On–going development plans up to 18 months will support you to be successfully promoted through to Assistant Merchandiser.
What is Off Price Buying?
Off-price. It's a lean business model without frills or fancy extras. It involves buying when we find something amazing – much like our customers do – all year round and as close to season as possible to get the best deal. No two deals are ever the same, and Buyers are in the market all the time with an open brief to buy anything – as long as it'll wow customers. And as we pay our invoices quickly, collect product from vendors, and never return or cancel orders, they love doing business with us, which puts us in a great position to negotiate on price.
What is Merchandising?
Our Merchandisers ensure that each store has the optimum product assortment. With around £40 million worth of product to allocate annually per department, they respond quickly to customer demand and work on getting the best mix into the stores at the right time and price in order to maximise profit. Considering local markets, trends and past sales, Merchandisers see to it that every customer, whether they're in Krakow, Kilkenny or Kensington High Street, sees a great range in their local store. And they get to use their commercial sense, business management skills and adaptable style every day.
The Distribution Graduate Programme
Distribution Induction & Development
You will join us on a three month induction which will give you a comprehensive insight to the Distribution function as well as our associated customers and partners. Through a combination of shadowing, workshops, and facility visits, you will gain both a technical understanding and develop people skills which will give you the confidence and knowledge to join the team as one of our Distribution Analysts in Head Office or an operations manager in one of our Processing Centres. On–going development plans will be in place creating continued opportunities within the Supply Chain.
What is Distribution?
It's important that our supply chain is just as dynamic as our buying model. The quicker merchandise gets to stores, the quicker it sells, so we've developed a highly sophisticated and unique approach to warehousing, distribution and logistics. As our stores require daily deliveries to keep our customers satisfied, we have to be in a position to react to change and address challenges in a timely, effective manner. Our distribution team is always on top of things, analysing risk & opportunity and making things happen.
How Will You Be Developed On One Of Our Graduate Programmes?
We don't have a training department – we have Talent Development experts, people who can recognise your natural strengths and help you to maximise them, ensuring that you get the critical skills you need so that nothing holds you back from achieving your potential. Because one size doesn't fit all, you'll have options ranging from e-learning solutions to 1–2–1 sessions with your line manager to project work and much, much more. And with regular informal feedback and formal appraisals, you'll be perfectly positioned to drive the many personal development opportunities you'll come across.