

Commercial Undergraduate Placement Programme
Watford, Hertfordshire
- Full Time
36104
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Wickes are a digitally led, service enabled organisation with a project in every home.
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? Are you looking to gain experience in an established FTSE250 business to help prepare you for a career after University?
If the answer to all the above is ‘yes’ then look no further as the Wickes Commercial Placement scheme is the choice for you!
We are looking to recruit University students to join our commercial team for a full time placement year in September 2022 which would form part of your penultimate year of study.
A 'stand out' opportunity - within the placement programme you will spend dedicated time with both the Category Management team as well as the Supply Chain Team. 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 in category management or supply chain.
You will be supported and mentored by senior members of the leadership team and gain exposure to various stakeholders across the business. Gaining key insights into the strategy and workings of a retail organisation you will also be supported in delivering a project by the end of the placement.
Key Accountabilities:
This role will be split into two placements, spending equal dedicated time with both the Category Management and Supply Chain functions. You will work closely with both teams to support in the day to day activity as detailed below.
Category Management Team
- Supporting the Commercial team to drive sales, maximise profit and achieve stock and sales targets
- Assisting in listing, managing and developing product ranges and promotional offers
- Maintaining the online store copy, images and information for a seamless customer experience
- Monitoring competitor activity
Supply Chain Team
- Delivering the right stock to the right stores at the right time within budget
- Planning inbound supply in line with the Distribution Centres
- Understanding impact of stockholding on financial performance of the business
- Ensuring that all Purchase Orders are placed within the agreed supplier lead times.
- Developing and maintaining an effective working relationship with suppliers.
- Communicating effectively with all stakeholders, including Buying, Marketing, IW and Operations on all product supply matters, including the timely maintenance and production of reports, trackers and updates.
- 3rd Year Placement Students studying a relevant degree such as Retail, Business, Finance or Economics
- Excellent communication and analytical skills
- Proficient Excel / Google Sheets skills
- Confident working both independently and as part of a wider team.
- Energy & enthusiasm to understand and learn the business
- Ability to report and present accurate information to show business impact and make first stage recommendations based on this information
What can we offer you:
You’ll be supported with fantastic learning and development and have the opportunity to grow and develop yourself with us.
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
We have recently re-opened our Support Centre in Watford, where our Commercial team are based, along with our other support functions. We recognise the value of bringing our teams together to learn, collaborate, support each other and build on our amazing culture. We are encouraging our teams to work flexibly, with a blend of remote / office working.
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.
But it is the Wickes’ culture that is considered its best kept secret; it’s a collaborative, down to earth, fun and inclusive environment where people feel part of a winning team. All our colleagues come from different backgrounds, but what we all have in common is a determination to succeed and a passion
Please note: All offers of employment may be subject to DBS / background checks.
You'll be a great fit at Wickes if:
- You like working with people
- You're happy to help even if it isn't your job
- Enjoy working in a team
Watch the video and find out more about inclusion at Wickes
Wickes culture
Wickes’ culture is considered its best kept secret. Explore our values below.
Our culture & valuesOur application process
- Submit your resume
- Answer some questions
- Interview process
- Join us for onboarding
Require an adjustment?
Please contact us if you require any adjustments within the application process.
Contact usPlease note, we would never ask for any form of payment to support a job application or relocation for a role.
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Let's Do it Right
Let’s embrace the vast range of cultures and experiences within our company Let’s harness the fresh thinking and passion this rich diversity brings to our workplace every single day Let’s continue to treat everyone fairly and equally, regardless of his or her status
Find out moreLet's Do it Right
Let’s attract and nurture the very best talent at all levels Let’s commit to always supporting a culture that reflects our vision and Winning Behaviours We want to provide you with more choice, helping drive engagement and ultimately creating a great place to work.
Building your careerLet's Do it Right
Let’s embrace the vast range of cultures and experiences within our company Let’s harness the fresh thinking and passion this rich diversity brings to our workplace every single day Let’s continue to treat everyone fairly and equally, regardless of his or her status
Find out moreLet's Do it Right
Let’s attract and nurture the very best talent at all levels Let’s commit to always supporting a culture that reflects our vision and Winning Behaviours We want to provide you with more choice, helping drive engagement and ultimately creating a great place to work.
Building your career