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- Tasks: Join our team as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and gain hands-on experience in sales and customer service.
- 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.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression into various roles within Howdens.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with a structured apprenticeship and support from experienced mentors.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm to learn, strong communication skills, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 15704 - 15704 £ per year.
At Howdens, we’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship employers. With a long-standing commitment to developing talent, we have been recognised among the 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 12–15 month 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.
As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice 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 GainThis apprenticeship is designed to give you the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed. You will:
- 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, and 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
We’re seeking people who are excited to learn, eager to get involved, and ready to start their career. Ideally, you’ll have:
- 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 Trade Supplier
Duration: Typically 12–15 months (including End Point Assessment)
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: Functional Skills in English and Maths (if needed)
Your hard work and commitment won’t go unnoticed. As a Howdens apprentice, you’ll receive:
- £15,704 annual salary
- Paid holiday entitlement
- A matched contribution pension scheme
- Team incentives and social events
- Generous staff discount on Howdens products
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 Lichfield employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Lichfield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Howdens and understand their values, products, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves a lot of customer interaction, try role-playing scenarios with friends or family. This will boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly when speaking with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current apprentices or employees at Howdens on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This can give you insider knowledge and potentially lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and serious about joining the Howdens team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Lichfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your excitement shine through in your application! We want to see that you're genuinely interested in the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role and ready to dive into the world of kitchen sales.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your skills and experiences that match what we're looking for. Mention your attention to detail, communication skills, and any relevant experience you have in customer service or sales.
Be Yourself: We love authenticity! Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your written application. Share a bit about who you are and why you’re excited about this apprenticeship with us at Howdens.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you started on your journey with Howdens!
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 basics. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, you'll need great communication skills. Practice explaining complex ideas simply and clearly. During the interview, be friendly and engaging – it’s all about building relationships!
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Employers love candidates who take initiative. Think of examples from your past where you’ve gone above and beyond, whether in school or work. Share these stories 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 opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.