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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers, manage orders, and learn essential skills in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join JP Corry, a top Builders Merchant known for quality and service in Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with flexible hours and formal training opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a supportive team focused on customer service and personal growth.
- Qualifications: A proactive attitude, passion for customer service, and GCSEs in English and Maths are required.
- Other info: Enjoy a mix of hands-on experience and classroom learning with fellow apprentices.
Join to apply for the Merchant Apprentice role at STARK Building Materials UK
JP Corry, BITC’s ‘Responsible Company of the Year’ (2024) is a leading Builders Merchants in Northern Ireland. Our name is renowned for providing excellent quality and service in the supply of building materials and timber-based products. By hiring the right people for the job, who align with our values of ‘Decency’, ‘Passion’ and ‘Pride’ we provide excellent career opportunities in a challenging and rewarding environment. Through equipping you with the right tools and training we lay a solid foundation for you to make your career a successful one with us.
This exciting opportunity offers a JP Corry Builders Merchant Apprenticeship in collaboration with Springvale Learning. The primary purpose of the apprenticeship is for individuals to gain development both on the job and through formal learning. This enables the delivery of exceptional customer experience and to be a valued member of both the branch and wider JP Corry team.
You will earn while you work a minimum of 21 hours per week. Rotating in 3-month periods across our trade centre, yard and internal sales role, before selecting where to return to. We hope by this stage, you will have found your niche and laid strong ‘foundations’ for moving onto the ‘first fix’ of your career.
Running Alongside The On-the-job Training You Will Be Undertaking Formal Learning With Springvale Learning. You Will Attend The Classes With Your JPC Merchant Apprentice Colleagues From Other Branches. The Modules Are
- Understanding our customers and JP Corry
- Mastering service delivery and communication
- Safety and team work first
- Boosting sales and the customer experience
- Expertly managing challenges
- Specialised skills
All our branch colleagues, regardless of job role, are there to provide exceptional customer service. Whether in person, over the phone or on email. Our branches are busy places, and as such all colleagues play a vital role ensuring that operations are carried out efficiently, effectively and safely, whilst providing an impressive experience for all.
Working in one of our yards you will be predominately working in an outdoor environment serving customers and operating a forklift truck to prepare orders.
The branch roles that you will experience take pride in delivering a level of high-quality customer service. Through excellent product knowledge and competitive pricing to secure sales as well as nurturing customer relationships. Overall, positioning your branch to be the best merchant within your local community.
Branch opening hours are Mon – Thurs 07.30 – 17.00 Fri 07.30 – 16.00 Sat 08.00 – 12.00 and we are flexible to consider a variety of working hours/patterns to suit your needs.
Closing date: Monday 1st September
What will I be doing on the job?
- Responsible for personal and workplace health and safety and observe regulations in relation to the Health and Safety at Work Act.
- Working independently and as part of the team to serve customers face to face, on the phone and over email.
- Delivering a high standard of housekeeping and presentation throughout the trade centre / yard
- Making sure all goods inwards are checked and put away in the correct location. Ensuring adequate branch stock levels and count accurately for/during stocktake
- Preparing orders for collection & delivery and confirming sales documentation is completed. Loading and unloading vehicles both manually and with a forklift truck
- Identify and generate sales opportunities by ensuring the customer has all they need for their job
- Efficiently processing customer transactions
- Provide competitive quotations to meet both customer and business needs.
- Any other duties deemed reasonable
What do we need from you?
- Proactive attitude with an appetite to learn
- A passion for customer service and / or sales
- An interest in construction
- Proficient in the use of IT
- A GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths
In The Circumstance Where We Receive a High Number Of Applications, We Reserve The Right To Apply The Following Enhanced Criteria To Facilitate Shortlisting
- Prior FLT experience and licence
About Us
At JP Corry, we\’re proud to be part of STARK Building Materials UK and dedicated to providing top-quality products and exceptional service to our customers. We\’re a friendly and collaborative team, passionate about what we do and committed to doing it well.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and join a team that is dedicated to providing great service, we want to hear from you. Apply today!
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Merchant Apprentice employer: Stark Building Materials UK
Contact Detail:
Stark Building Materials UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Merchant Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values of JP Corry: Decency, Passion, and Pride. During your interactions, whether in interviews or networking, make sure to demonstrate how you embody these values in your work ethic and customer service approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain some basic knowledge about building materials and the construction industry. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role and the company, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of JP Corry. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach and stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential questions about customer service scenarios. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully handled customer interactions, as this is crucial for the Merchant Apprentice role.
We think you need these skills to ace Merchant Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Merchant Apprentice role. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as customer service, teamwork, and safety regulations.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the values of 'Decency', 'Passion', and 'Pride'. Emphasise any previous customer service roles or experiences in construction, even if they are informal.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and your proactive attitude towards learning. Mention specific reasons why you want to work at JP Corry and how you can contribute to their team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stark Building Materials UK
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for customer service during the interview. Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers in previous roles or experiences, as this aligns with the company's values.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Attitude
Be prepared to discuss instances where you've taken initiative in your past experiences. This could be anything from suggesting improvements in a process to volunteering for additional responsibilities. It shows that you're eager to learn and grow.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company
Research JP Corry and STARK Building Materials before the interview. Understanding their products, services, and company culture will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Even if you don't have direct experience in construction, emphasise any transferable skills you possess, such as teamwork, communication, and IT proficiency. Relate these skills back to how they can benefit the role of a Merchant Apprentice.
