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Retail Management Trainee
The scheme, which starts in September each year. is open to anyone who is educated to at least A-level standard or equivalent. You may have just completed your education, or you may currently be working in a non management role and looking for career progression to match your skills and abilities.
The first stage of the programme, which lasts two years, prepares you for a Section Manager role in one of our food shops. If you successfully complete the first stage, you’ll have the opportunity to continue training to become a Department Manager, which involves being a member of the senior branch management team.
Your training
During the first stage of the programme to prepare you for a Section Manager role, you’ll gain an overall view of how a Waitrose branch operates. In the beginning, you’ll learn how to organise yourself and others, and gain knowledge of branch and company objectives.
As well as on-the-job experience, you’ll use self-study materials under the guidance of your Department Manager and attend review days where you’ll be able to meet other trainees and exchange ideas.
If you successfully complete the first stage of the programme, you can then continue training for a further three years to become a Department Manager. This training will include a variety of courses away from the branch to help enhance your leadership skills, and the opportunity to study for a recognised qualification.
If you make it to Department Manager, you’ll be awarded the City and Guilds Licentiateship, which is the equivalent of an NVQ Level 4.
All trainees on the programme must be mobile to receive training in different branches.
The rewards
If you join our Retail Management Training Scheme, your pay rate will be competitive and reviewed in the light of your progress. In addition to salary, all Partners enjoy an array of excellent benefits from the outset. To find out more, please view our Benefits page.
How to apply
Our 2007 Retail Management Training scheme has now closed. Please return from Easter 2008 for our next campaign.