Take your first step into retail
If you’re interested in how a retail business works behind the scenes, our Head Office Work Experience is a great place to start. It’s the perfect introduction to how a national retail business operates.
Based at our offices in Watford or Northampton, you’ll spend a week in one of our teams that fits your interests. Whether it’s Marketing, Technology, Legal or Finance, you’ll develop valuable, transferable skills and experience that will support your next steps.
You’ll gain insight into day-to-day operations, contribute to real projects, and build an understanding of how different functions work together.
I really like the kind of culture here... even with your CEO, it’s open... it made everyone seem very equal and I think that’s very cool.
Our Recruitment Process
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Apply:
Upload your CV and tell us why you’re interested in joining Wickes.
Interview:
A short online chat during week commencing 18th May so we get to know each other
The Experience:
Join us for an action-packed week from Monday 6th to Friday 10th July 2026.
I chose to do my work experience to gain more clarity on my future, like what I want to do when I’m older or for a university course and it has definitely helped in some ways.
FAQ's
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What will my hours look like?
- You’ll be with us from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. This gives you a full-time view of office life, with time to contribute to projects and get to know the wider business.
Where will I be based?
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This depends on the department you’ll be joining
- Watford: Home to Legal, Marketing & Digital, Store Ops, Tech, Recruitment, Communications, Finance, and Commercial.
- Northampton: Home to our Installations and Distribution experts.
What’s the dress code?
- At Wickes, we have the freedom to be ourselves. Our offices are smart-casual. It means looking neat and professional while staying relaxed.
Is this a paid placement?
- Our work experience is a voluntary placement focused on your personal development and gaining insights into a corporate environment. While there is no salary, we’ll cover for your lunch and travel each day.
Will I need to bring lunch?
- We’ll provide food, drinks and refreshments throughout the week, free of charge.
I most enjoyed learning about different people, how they got into the business, and their different stories... it’s learning how they worked at different places and how they ended up at Wickes