At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and gain hands-on experience in customer service and sales.
- Company: Howdens, the UK's leading trade kitchen supplier, committed to developing talent.
- Benefits: Earn £15,704 annually, enjoy paid holidays, and receive generous staff discounts.
- Why this job: Build a rewarding career with support from mentors and training opportunities.
- Qualifications: Strong attention to detail, great communication skills, and a proactive attitude.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression into various roles within Howdens.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 11000 £ per month.
At Howdens, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers. With a long‑standing commitment to developing talent, we’ve been recognised among Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers since 2022. Our apprentices don’t just do a job - they build lasting careers.
We’re looking for enthusiastic, proactive people to join our apprenticeship programme and become an integral part of our depot teams. As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, you’ll follow a structured development programme that combines practical depot experience with high‑quality off‑the‑job training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider.
This apprenticeship will give you hands‑on experience across key areas of our depot, including customer service at the trade counter, sales and business development, stock control, and kitchen planning. You will be supported throughout by your Depot Manager, a dedicated mentor, and our in‑house Learning and Development team - ensuring you grow in confidence and capability every step of the way.
What You’ll Gain- Learn how to deliver exceptional service and build strong relationships with trade customers both in person and over the phone.
- Build skills in serving and selling to customers on the trade counter, ensuring customers receive their products in a timely and efficient manner.
- Gain product knowledge and develop the ability to advise customers on our kitchen, bedroom and joinery ranges, identifying new sales opportunities and helping to drive the growth of the depot.
- Learn the principles of stock control and warehousing, ensuring stock levels are accurately maintained and following all health and safety regulations.
- Grow your confidence and communication skills as part of a close‑knit team in a fast‑paced depot environment.
- Be supported to complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, including English and Maths if required.
Completing this apprenticeship opens doors to a variety of career opportunities across Howdens, with in‑house Learning and Development programmes to support your progression. Many of our past apprentices have progressed into roles such as:
- Trade Counter Salesperson
- Business Developer
- Kitchen Sales Designer
- Depot Management Roles
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to doing things well.
- Great communication skills and a customer‑focused mindset.
- A proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and use your initiative.
- Good organisation and time management.
- A genuine interest in developing your skills and growing your career.
- The right to work in the UK.
- Apprenticeship Standard: Level 2 Customer Service
- Duration: Minimum 12‑month programme
- Training: A mix of on‑the‑job experience and off‑the‑job learning
- Support: From a mentor, depot team, learning and development team and external apprenticeship training provider
- Qualifications: Essential Skills in English and Maths (if needed)
- £15,704 annual salary.
- Paid holiday entitlement.
- A matched contribution pension scheme.
- Team incentives and social events.
- Generous staff discount on Howdens products.
About Howdens: Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, trusted by over 460,000 trade professionals. With more than 900 depots and a growing presence across Europe, we’re a business built on entrepreneurial spirit and strong local relationships. At Howdens, we’re committed to being worthwhile for all concerned. We aim to create an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. If you need any adjustments to our recruitment process, just email apprenticeships@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we’ll be happy to help.
Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Haverfordwest employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Haverfordwest
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Howdens and understand their values, products, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. Since this role is all about customer service, make sure you can confidently talk about your experiences and how you can contribute to the team. Role-play with friends or family to get comfortable!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive during your interview. Ask questions about the apprenticeship programme and express your eagerness to learn. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are excited about building a career with Howdens.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re tech-savvy and know how to navigate the digital world, which is super important in today’s job market.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Haverfordwest
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion shine through in your application! We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role. Share why you’re interested in this apprenticeship and how it aligns with your career goals.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for Howdens. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description, like your customer service skills or any previous sales experience. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read, so make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official 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 apprenticeship programme right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand Howdens' products and services. Familiarise yourself with kitchen planning, stock control, and customer service principles. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to role-play common customer scenarios with a friend to get comfortable with the types of interactions you’ll face on the job.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Employers love candidates who take initiative. Think of examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond, whether in school, work, or volunteering. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to highlight your proactive mindset.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training programme, team dynamics, or future career pathways. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you determine if Howdens is the right fit for you.