Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers, generate leads, and support the sales team in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Howdens, a top employer for apprentices, recognised for nurturing talent and career growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, paid holidays, pension contributions, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while pursuing a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner Apprenticeship.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, target-driven mindset, and a desire for personal development are essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-15 month apprenticeship with comprehensive training and support.
At Howdens we take immense pride in being recognised as a leading employer of apprentices. Our commitment to nurturing talent and creating long-term career opportunities is evident through our placement in the prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers table in both 2022 and 2023.
The Opportunity:
As an integral part of our workforce, we are seeking talented individuals to join our award-winning apprenticeship scheme and help drive our business forward. The Apprentice Business Developer role offers a unique opportunity to receive comprehensive on-the-job training and expert support from a leading training provider while pursuing a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner Apprenticeship. The program typically spans 12 to 15 months.
Responsibilities:
- Provide potential and existing customers with the highest level of customer service and support the wider sales team in generating and chasing leads.
- Focus on effective customer account management aiming to increase the company’s customer base and develop long-term collaborative relationships within the building trade.
- Maintain up-to-date product and industry knowledge.
- Use creative marketing materials to promote Howdens products, depot events, and sales periods to new and existing customers.
- Keep in touch with both depots lead banks regularly via the telephone and using our customer engagement messaging tool.
- Develop long-term collaborative relationships with customers.
- Proactively gain new accounts, repeat business, and generate qualified leads for the team through outgoing sales calls.
- Process sales for customers using the in-store payment systems, quoting correct pricing, delivery date, and stock requirements.
Requirements:
- Strong communication skills.
- Ability to build strong relationships.
- Good customer service skills.
- Target driven.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work autonomously and use own initiative.
- Effective planning and organising abilities.
- Capability to prioritise and manage own workload effectively.
- A strong desire for continuous personal and professional development.
- The right to work in the UK and related evidence.
Please note if you have considerable experience in a similar role you may not be suitable for an apprenticeship. If you already have experience and are looking for a full-time role please visit to see our non-apprenticeship opportunities.
The Apprenticeship:
- Customer Service Practitioner Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
- Training provided by our in-house Learning & Development Team.
- Support from external training providers.
- A 15-month program including a minimum 12-month learning period and endpoint assessment.
- Apprentices without Level 1 English and maths qualifications will be supported in achieving this level before undertaking the Level 2 English and maths test for the endpoint assessment and apprenticeship completion.
Rewards and Benefits:
We believe in recognising and rewarding the hard work and dedication of our team members. In return for your commitment you will receive:
- A competitive £15,704 salary.
- Paid holiday entitlement.
- A generous matched contribution Pension Scheme.
- Team incentives and outings.
- Staff discount on Howdens products.
About Us:
Howdens Joinery is the UK’s premier trade kitchen supplier offering a vast range of products in kitchens, joinery, and hardware. With over 800 depots across the UK and Europe, we have earned the trust of more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. Our ambitious growth agenda and entrepreneurial ethos make us an exciting place to build a career. Our dedication to our people has earned us recognition as one of the 10 Best Big Companies to Work For. Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process please email with the job title and location and we will be happy to help you.
Key Skills: Business Development, Sales Experience, B2B Sales, Marketing, Communication skills, Crystal Reports, Microsoft Dynamics Navision, Microsoft PowerPoint, Relationship Management, negotiation, Contracts, Mobile Applications.
Employment Type: Contract
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1
Apprentice Business Developer. Job in Guildford Education & Training Jobs employer: Howdens Joinery Co.
Contact Detail:
Howdens Joinery Co. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Business Developer. Job in Guildford Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Howdens' products and services. Understanding the range of offerings will not only help you in conversations with potential customers but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your telephone sales techniques. Since the role involves generating leads through calls, honing your communication skills and learning how to engage customers effectively over the phone can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former apprentices at Howdens. They can provide valuable insights into the apprenticeship experience and share tips on how to excel in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for personal and professional development. Highlight any relevant courses or training you've undertaken, as well as your eagerness to learn new skills that align with the role of a Business Developer.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Business Developer. Job in Guildford Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Apprentice Business Developer role. Familiarise yourself with the skills required, such as strong communication and customer service abilities, to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Tailored CV: Create a CV that highlights your relevant skills and experiences. Focus on any previous customer service roles or experiences that demonstrate your ability to build relationships and work autonomously. Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and Howdens as a company. Mention specific reasons why you want to join their team and how you can contribute to their goals. Be sure to align your personal values with their commitment to nurturing talent.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread all documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your contact information is correct. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens Joinery Co.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Apprentice Business Developer, strong communication skills are essential. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and engage in a friendly conversation. Practice common interview questions with a friend to build confidence.
✨Research the Company
Familiarise yourself with Howdens and its products before the interview. Understanding their business model and recent achievements will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions more effectively.
✨Prepare for Role-Specific Questions
Expect questions related to customer service and sales techniques. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully built relationships or handled customer inquiries. This will help you illustrate your potential as a Business Developer.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
Since this is an apprenticeship, emphasise your eagerness to learn and grow within the company. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to personal and professional development, which aligns with Howdens' values.
