Howdens Ilminster, England, United Kingdom
Overview
We’re looking for enthusiastic, proactive people to join our apprenticeship programme as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice. You’ll follow a structured development programme combining practical depot experience with high-quality off-the-job training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider. The apprenticeship is 12–15 months and provides 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 to help you grow in confidence and capability.
What You’ll Gain
* Learn how to deliver exceptional service and build strong relationships with trade customers in person and over the phone
* Develop skills in serving and selling to customers on the trade counter, ensuring timely and efficient product delivery
* Gain product knowledge and the ability to advise customers on kitchen, bedroom and joinery ranges, identifying new sales opportunities
* Learn stock control and warehousing principles, maintain stock levels accurately, and follow health and safety regulations
* Grow confidence and communication skills as part of a close-knit team in a fast-paced depot
* 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 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. 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.
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