This isn’t a standard apprenticeship – and this isn’t a role you’ll be forgotten in.
In June 2026, Howdens is launching a brand‑new, enhanced cohort programme for Apprentice Kitchen Sales Designers across major city regions in the North of England. This programme has senior leadership backing, extra learning investment, and a community of apprentices progressing together.
If you’re ambitious, people‑focused and interested in sales, design and building relationships, this is an outstanding way to start a long‑term career with one of the UK’s most successful businesses.
What makes this apprenticeship different?
You’ll be part of a regional cohort, learning and developing together from day one. Alongside your depot‑based role, you’ll benefit from:
* Cohorted classroom sessions with apprentices from day one
* Direct learning from Howdens experts, including:
o Lead Kitchen Sales Designers
o Product and category teams
o Internal sales and leadership teams
* Close support from Learning & Development and training partners
* One‑to‑one support from your apprenticeship coach
* Strong visibility and sponsorship from senior leaders
* A structured, supportive route into a sales career with real progression
This programme is designed to help you fast‑track your career into a future top performer and sales leader, not just fill a role.
The role – what you’ll be learning to do
As an Apprentice Kitchen Sales Designer, you’ll learn how to turn ideas into reality.
You’ll work with professional builders and their customers to:
* Understand customer needs and lifestyle requirements
* Visit homes to measure and plan kitchen spaces
* Design inspirational kitchens using Howdens’ market‑leading products and design tools
* Create high‑quality visuals using our My Kitchen design service
* Price, plan and manage orders accurately and professionally
* Build long‑lasting relationships based on trust and service
This is a sales role, but it’s also creative, relationship‑focused, and highly skilled.
Who this programme is for
You don’t need experience in kitchens or sales – we’ll teach you that.
We’re looking for people who:
* Enjoy talking to people and building relationships
* Are motivated, driven and keen to succeed
* Like problem‑solving and being creative
* Have a competitive spirit
* Want a long‑term career, not just a short‑term job
* Are organised, reliable and ready to take responsibility
* Are open to learning, feedback and personal development
Apprenticeship details
* Level 3 Fitted Furniture Design Technician Apprenticeship
* Duration: approximately 14 months
* Delivered through a blend of:
o On‑the‑job learning
o Cohorted classroom sessions
o Support from Howdens’ Learning & Development team
o External training provider input
* Support provided to achieve English and maths (if required)
Locations & travel
Roles are available across the following city regions:
* Liverpool
* Manchester
* Leeds
* Sheffield
* Newcastle
You’ll occasionally visit customer homes and sites, so a driving licence is required. Business mileage will be reimbursed.
Reward & benefits
* Starting salary: £16,686
* Paid holiday entitlement
* Generous pension scheme
* Team incentives and social events
* Staff discount on Howdens products
Most importantly, you’ll gain skills, confidence and experience that open doors – within Howdens and throughout your career.
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