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- Tasks: Join our team as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic depot.
- Company: Howdens, a leading UK apprenticeship employer with a commitment to talent development.
- Benefits: Earn £15,704, enjoy paid holidays, and receive generous staff discounts.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for career progression and personal growth.
- Why this job: Build a rewarding career while learning essential skills in customer service and sales.
- Qualifications: Strong attention to detail, great communication skills, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ 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 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. 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, 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.
Future Career Pathways
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
What We’re Looking For
- 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.
The Apprenticeship Programme
- 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)
Rewards and Benefits
- £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 Nottingham employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Nottingham
✨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 their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before any interview, do some mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions related to customer service and sales, as these are key areas for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past apprentices at Howdens on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what to expect during the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining Howdens. Don’t forget to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice in Nottingham
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 and how it fits into your career goals.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific apprenticeship. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match what we’re looking for, like customer service or teamwork.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps you stay updated on your application status.
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 their kitchen, bedroom, and joinery ranges. This 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, great communication is key. Practice explaining complex ideas simply and clearly. You might even want to role-play common customer scenarios with a friend to get comfortable with the types of interactions you’ll have.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Howdens is looking for enthusiastic and proactive individuals. Think of examples from your past where you took initiative or solved problems independently. Be ready to share these 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 interest in the role and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.