Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in customer service, sales, and stock control at Howdens.
- Company: Join Howdens, a top UK apprenticeship employer with a commitment to talent development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, paid holidays, and generous staff discounts.
- Why this job: Build a lasting career while learning from experienced mentors in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong attention to detail, great communication skills, and a proactive attitude are essential.
- Other info: Complete your Level 2 Trade Supplier Apprenticeship with excellent career growth opportunities.
Howdens – Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
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.
What you’ll do
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.
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 depot growth
- Learn the principles of stock control and warehousing, ensuring stock levels are accurately maintained and all health and safety regulations are followed
- 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
- 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 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 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 an 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Trade Sales and Service Apprentice employer: Howdens
Contact Detail:
Howdens Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Howdens and understand their values, products, and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews 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 and building relationships, make sure you can confidently talk about your experiences and how you can contribute to the team. Role-play with friends or family if you need to!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an opportunity to showcase your skills or suggest improvements, don’t hesitate to speak up. Employers love candidates who take initiative and show they can think on their feet.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Howdens and ready to kickstart your career with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for the role shine through! We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us at Howdens.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Mention specific qualities like attention to detail and a customer-focused mindset that match our job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your enthusiasm comes across without overwhelming us with too much information.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Howdens and their products. Familiarise yourself with their kitchen, bedroom, and joinery ranges. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves customer service, practice how you communicate your thoughts clearly and effectively. You might want to prepare examples of how you've successfully interacted with customers in the past, whether in a job or during your studies.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Think of instances where you've taken the initiative, whether in school projects or part-time jobs. Be ready to share these examples during the interview to highlight your proactive mindset and ability to work independently.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the apprenticeship programme, team dynamics, or growth opportunities within Howdens. It shows you're engaged and serious about your future with them.
