Graduate Commercial Category Assistant Watford 2024

Are you looking for your first graduate position to kickstart your Commercial career within retail? Would you enjoy the pace and energy of a retail environment which is collaborative, fun and inclusive where people feel part of a winning team?

We’re really excited to announce that as part of our investment in our Early Careers talent, we are recruiting for the new role of Commercial Graduate, based in our head office in Watford starting from Summer 2024 onwards.

This is a permanent position where you'll have the opportunity to spend dedicated time across different elements of the broader Commercial team such as Category Management and Supply Chain Team and this blend of experience will provide you with the opportunity to learn about the wider commercial business and develop the key skills required to fast track your retail career with an inclusive and engaged team. You will also engage with other functions across digital, marketing, finance and operations.

If you are shortlisted for the role, you will be invited to join our in-person Assessment Centre to be held in June/ July 2024. Based in Hertfordshire where you will have the opportunity to meet some of our amazing colleagues and we hope to learn more about you as well!

The role

This graduate entry role will provide you with the opportunity to see the product through its journey from its original source, anywhere in the world, right through to it being put onto the shelves in our stores and online. Depending on the role you secure, you will have exposure to various functions such as Category Management and Supply Chain as detailed below.

Category Management Team

• Support the Commercial team to drive sales, maximise profit and achieve stock and sales targets
• Assist in listing, managing and developing product ranges and promotional offers
• Maintain the online store copy, images and information for a seamless customer experience
• Monitor competitor activity

Supply Chain Team

• Deliver the right stock to the right stores at the right time within budget
• Plan inbound supply in line with the Distribution Centres
• Understand impact of stockholding on financial performance of the business
• Ensure that all Purchase Orders are placed within the agreed supplier lead times.
• Develop and maintain an effective working relationship with suppliers.
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders, including Buying, Marketing, Warehouse and Operations on all product supply matters, including the timely maintenance and production of reports, trackers and updates.

What are we looking for

• Degree level qualification preferably in a subject such as business, buying, finance or retail but not essential
• A passion for buying or retail and have a basic understanding of them
• Either Retail or Leisure & Hospitality experience would be desirable
• Numerate with strong excel or google sheets skills
• Entrepreneurial attitude & way of thinking
• Motivated & enthusiastic
• Be able to work in a fast paced environment where no day is the same
• Work well under pressure
• Eye for detail

What can we offer you

As a graduate, you’ll be supported and mentored by senior members of the leadership team and gain exposure to various stakeholders across the business. You’ll gain key insights into the strategy and workings of a retail organisation and will have a dedicated development plan which will provide you with the skills and experience to drive your progress through our established career path in Buying.

We’ll also equip you with a benefits package that includes:

• Competitive bonus
• Contributory pension scheme
• Colleague discount
• Discount platform including savings and cash back at numerous retailers, savings on gym membership, cycle to work scheme

You'll also join our Early Careers Group. The aim of this group is to support colleagues by helping them to grow their network, learn about specific training and hear about senior leaders' career journeys. The group meets on a monthly basis and is a great way to meet other colleagues in the business.

Location

This role is based at our Support Centre in Watford and we have developed an approach to modern flexible working which means colleagues attend the office on a regular basis, as we believe that being together in person drives collaboration, builds strong relationships, supports development and performance and enables everyone to experience and contribute to our winning culture.

We do however, recognise that working flexibly is important for all of our colleagues to be effective, productive and achieve a healthy work life balance, and this will be something you can agree with your line manager.

About us

Wickes is a multi-channel retailer operating in the home improvement market. With 40 years in industry, Wickes now generates revenue in excess of £1.3Bn across 230 stores delivered by 8,000+ colleagues.

At Wickes we are committed to helping the nation feel house proud. We are a modern home improvement business with a unique, engaging culture and passionate colleagues who are committed to growing responsibly, supporting people, the environment and homes.

Closing date for applications is 22nd March 2024, we may close it earlier should we get an extremely high number of applications.

Please note: All offers of employment may be subject to DBS / background checks.

Please contact us here if you require any adjustments within the application process. If you require any reasonable adjustments at the interview stage you will have an opportunity to inform us when we invite you to interview. Please note, this link is only for reasonable adjustments required - general enquiries, or direct CV applications cannot be accepted via this form