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- Tasks: Launch your career in Buying with hands-on roles and real impact on business objectives.
- Company: Join Boots UK, a diverse and inclusive employer committed to your growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, employee discounts, flexible benefits, and a pension scheme.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience and skills while working with top brands in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Must be on track for a 2:1 degree or above with strong problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Structured development pathway leading to permanent roles and mentorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Application closing date: 19th April 2026
Assessment centre dates: May 2026
Start date: September 2026
Location: Nottingham, Support Office
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Recruitment Partner: Anastasia Walker
About the programme
Our Graduate Programme offers an exciting opportunity to launch your career in Buying. From day one, you'll be placed in a hands-on role where you will make a meaningful contribution to key business objectives. This three-year scheme begins with a 4-week in-store placement, giving you valuable first-hand insight into our customers and the day-to-day operations of our retail environment. Following this, you will move into a category specific role in our Nottingham Support office, taking responsibility for the day-to-day management of an area. Over the course of the programme you will complete two role rotations, each lasting 18 months, broadening your experience across two of our core business units: Beauty, Healthcare, and General Merchandise. Each placement is designed to expand your network while giving you real ownership and exposure. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to build and deliver category plans. The programme will help you develop skills and knowledge and provides all the stretch and challenge needed to accelerate a career at Boots. It includes functional specific and certified negotiation training to ensure you are set up for success. You will be supported throughout the programme by a dedicated line manager, a mentor, and opportunities to connect with senior leaders, expand your network, and take part in development sessions to support your personal and professional growth. The 3-year scheme offers a clear and structured development pathway, preparing you to progress into a permanent Assistant Category Manager or Category Manager role upon completion, depending on your performance.
Key responsibilities
- As part of a Category team, you will directly influence category plans, performance and growth.
- You will build relationships both internally and externally with our large supplier base, working collaboratively to negotiate the most sought-after products and brands in the market while ensuring you agree on optimum promotional and marketing plans for your category areas.
- Demonstrate team management skills, organising and prioritising multiple processes to ensure your category plans land in stores right the first time.
- Implement the commercial strategy working towards core budget targets and manage the category profit & loss to achieve these targets.
- Work with the marketing team to secure the best possible plans and review potential product and brand launches deciding if they align with Boots strategic priorities.
- Work with your Category assistant to support their development and progression.
What you’ll need to have (our must-haves)
- On track to achieve, or already holds, a 2:1 degree or above
- A strong desire to problem-solve and adapt in a fast-paced, changing environment
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills
- Confidently challenges processes and data to drive efficiencies
- Work well as part of a team and build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Shows drive for self-development and continuous growth
- Has a genuine passion for our products, brand, and what we do
Rewards designed for you
- Pension membership (PRSA)
- Partial paid maternity leave
- Discretionary annual bonus
- Generous employee discounts
- Flexible benefits scheme
About us
At Boots UK, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, creating a place where everyone feels welcome, supported and free to be themselves. We believe that when our people feel valued and included, they thrive, so we are committed to creating a brilliant Boots for our people so they can make a difference for our customers and colleagues every time.
Buying Graduate in Nottingham employer: BOOTS
Contact Detail:
BOOTS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Graduate in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, especially those in buying roles. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the assessment centre by practising common interview questions and role-play scenarios. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for Boots and its products during interviews. Research recent launches or campaigns and be ready to discuss how you’d contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Buying Graduate in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buying Graduate role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the job description, like your organisational skills and passion for products. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're excited about the Buying Graduate programme and how your background aligns with our values. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. We love candidates who can adapt and think on their feet, so share any experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you'll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at BOOTS
✨Know Your Categories
Before the interview, dive deep into the categories you'll be working with, like Beauty, Healthcare, and General Merchandise. Understand current trends, key products, and customer preferences. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion and readiness to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in fast-paced environments. Think about times when you had to adapt quickly or find creative solutions. This will highlight your ability to thrive under pressure, which is crucial for a Buying Graduate role.
✨Build Relationships
Since the role involves collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers, think of ways you've successfully built relationships in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage these skills to negotiate effectively and drive category plans.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the programme and the company culture. Inquire about the mentorship opportunities and how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals.