Join to apply for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role at Howdens
19 hours ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the Trade Sales and Service Apprentice role at Howdens
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
Launch Your Sales Career with Howdens as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice
Start your journey with Howdens as a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice — a 2-year, earn-while-you-learn programme that combines real-world depot experience with structured training across multiple areas of sales and customer service.
At Howdens, we’re proud to invest in early careers and to provide the tools and support needed to succeed. As a Trade Sales & Service Apprentice, you’ll rotate across different sales functions, from trade counter operations and telesales to kitchen design and customer site visits. You’ll gain hands-on experience while completing the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Sales, with support from your depot team, mentor, external training provider, and our in-house Learning and Development team.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice, you’ll gain practical skills and knowledge across key areas of our depot’s sales operation:
Sales & Customer Service
* Build relationships with trade customers through in-person and telephone interactions
* Generate leads and support outbound sales calls
* Provide knowledgeable advice on our products and services
* Contribute to individual and depot sales targets
* Upsell and cross-sell the full range of Howdens products
Trade Counter & Depot Operations
* Support customers at the trade counter and process sales
* Handle orders accurately, including pricing and stock availability
* Help manage stock levels, invoicing, banking, and administration
* Promote safe working practices in line with Health & Safety regulations
Kitchen Sales & Design
* Assist in designing kitchens using CAD software
* Visit customer sites to measure spaces and assess design needs
* Collaborate with builders and homeowners to deliver tailored kitchen solutions
* Learn to negotiate and close sales that meet customer expectations and business goals
You’ll work closely with experienced colleagues, your workplace mentor, and the depot manager, building a solid foundation for a future full-time sales role with Howdens.
Travel is a key part of the role. You will need access to your own vehicle and a full (or in-progress) driving licence. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need previous sales experience — just the drive to learn, a customer-first mindset, and the ability to work well in a team. We’re looking for individuals who are:
* Confident communicators with a professional and friendly attitude
* Curious learners with an interest in sales, retail, or kitchen design
* Creative, detail-focused, and customer-centred
* Ability to build and maintain strong relationships
* Good customer service skills
* Target driven
* Able to work independently and use your own initiative
* Effective planning and organisation skills
* Ability to manage and prioritise your own workload
* A strong desire for continuous personal and professional development
* The right to work in Ireland and relevant evidence
* A full driving licence is required (you may be considered if currently learning to drive)
The Apprenticeship
* Duration: 2 years
* Qualification: QQI validated NFQ Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Sales
* Structure: Blended learning – on-the-job training plus online classes and face-to-face workshops
* Support: Workplace mentor, depot team, in-house Learning and Development team, and external training provider
Location:
Apprenticeship to be undertaken in one of our trade depots: Togher, Blackpool or Little Island.
Entry Requirements
To apply, you must meet one of the following criteria:
* Grade O6/H7 or higher in five Leaving Certificate subjects, including:
* Mathematics (F2/O6/H7)
* English or Irish (O6/H7)
* QQI Level 5 or higher qualification
* International equivalent of a full Level 5 qualification
Mature applicants (aged 21+) without a Level 5 qualification but with relevant experience may also be considered through an interview and supporting documentation
Rewards And Benefits
We believe in recognising and rewarding the hard work and dedication of our team members. In return for your commitment, you will receive:
* A competitive salary
* Paid holiday entitlement
* A generous matched-contribution pension scheme
* Team incentives and outings
* Staff discount on Howdens products
* Career development opportunities post apprenticeship
Apply Now
If you’re ready to start a career in design and sales and want to earn while you learn, apply now to become a Trade Sales and Service Apprentice at Howdens.
About Us
Howdens Joinery is a trusted trade kitchen supplier, offering a vast range of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. With over 900 depots across Ireland, the UK, and Europe, we’ve earned the loyalty of more than 460,000 trade professionals. Our ambitious growth agenda and entrepreneurial culture make us an exciting place to build your career.
Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. If you need any adjustments during our recruitment process, please email apprenticeships@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we’ll be happy to support you.
Seniority level
* Seniority level
Internship
Employment type
* Employment type
Full-time
Job function
* Job function
Sales and Business Development
* Industries
Wholesale Building Materials, Retail, and Design Services
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Howdens by 2x
Get notified about new Trade Sales jobs in Wedmore, England, United Kingdom.
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Wells, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 months ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 months ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Greater Bristol Area, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 3 months ago
Bridgwater, England, United Kingdom 2 days ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 7 months ago
Internal Sales Executive - Electrical Wholesale
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Stockland Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 days ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 11 hours ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 3 days ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Chard, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Internal Sales Executive - Electrical Wholesale
Bristol, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Bridgwater, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr