Join to apply for the Graduate Programme role at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd.
Lawsons Group is the UK’s largest independent supplier of timber, building, fencing, and landscape supplies, founded in 1921. With 35 branches, over 700 employees and an annual turnover of £165 million, we operate across London and the South‑east of England.
We are looking for graduates who are passionate about improving our business and ready to embark on a structured journey that will develop core skills for a fast‑tracked career as a future leader within the Lawson Group.
Graduate Future Leaders Programme 2026
Based in one of our key branches, you will begin by learning the business and all functions involved. You will gain knowledge of all major aspects of our business, from operations to sales, customer service, and people leadership.
This will involve:
- Gaining experience within the yard, learning about the products, serving customers, and loading vehicles once you have obtained your forklift licence.
- Working within counter sales, telesales, stock control and also completing branch logistics training.
- Financial training for non‑finance managers.
- IOSH safety training.
- Short courses with Lawson’s internal support functions such as IT, HR, Marketing, External Sales, Group Transport and Purchasing.
During the two‑year programme you will also complete a Management Diploma course and a business‑based project delivered to the Lawson Group Board of Directors.
Essential Graduate Skills, Academic Qualifications and Personal Qualities
- At least a Lower Second‑Class honours degree (2:2).
- Future Leader role‑modelling behaviours such as integrity, honesty, drive, ambition and discretion.
- Strong customer focus.
- Passion for the builders’ merchant sector.
- Strong leadership and entrepreneurial potential.
- A clean full UK driving licence.
- Flexibility to travel between branches and attend training or development sessions as required.
- Confidence to embrace an intensive training plan.
Programme Details, Pay and Employee Benefits
- Full‑time working hours and a competitive starting salary of £32,000.
- 25 days annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays, and a celebration day each year.
- Inclusive company pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and comprehensive staff wellbeing support.
- Staff discount, access to online GP services and our exclusive My Reward recognition platform.
- Ongoing mentoring, accredited training and genuine long‑term career development within Lawson Group.
Why Start Your Graduate Leadership Journey with Lawson
- Join a respected, family‑run business with over a century of success in the building materials industry.
- Benefit from a supportive, inclusive team culture committed to your growth and achievement.
- Be recognised as a valued member of your community, trusted by both colleagues and customers.
Seniority level
Internship
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Education and Training
Industries
Building Materials
