Creative with a commercial impact.
Develop, Innovate, and Deliver.
The Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant programme is for individuals with a creative flair, an eye for the latest consumer buying trends and a keen interest in developing products to take to market on behalf of recognised brands and retailers.
This programme will develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours of Buying and Merchandising Assistants, allowing them to work collaboratively to contribute to the delivery of department/company sales and profit targets.
Scotland and Wales learners ONLY - Your programme is not eligible for UK funding, but an alternative opportunity is being provided to you. You will be able complete the programme along with all other Iceland colleagues but will be exempt from completing the End Point Assessment (EPA) and your functional skills. Additionally, you will receive a fully accredited qualification at the end of the programme.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
BLENDED LEARNING
Tailored Training Modules for Your Needs: Our apprenticeship programme has been built to fit the dynamic and realistic needs of Iceland's colleagues. Through a blended learning approach providing both face-to-face and virtual delivery, we offer you a well rounded learning experience that adapts to the fast-paced demands of the industry.
TRUE PARTNERSHIP
What sets our programme apart is our commitment to really understanding you our learners and building a true partnership with Iceland. You will experience a unique blend of learning activities, carefully created to mirror the challenges and opportunities specific to how the stores operated day to day.
WORKING BETTER TOGETHER
You will benefit from face-to-face sessions where you can engage with expert trainers and peers and learn from each other's experiences and knowledge of the business. Likewise, our virtual delivery methods make sure accessibility and flexibility, allowing you to access learning resources anytime, anywhere.
GROUP APPROACH
Our group based approach not only drives an amazing learning experience but provides a support network for you to work with to help achieve your goals and ultimately be a real success. It's more than just a development programme; it's a journey that we will go on together, driving support and challenge across the retail market.
START DATES
Ongoing
ELIGIBILITY
Currently in a role within the buying and merchandising team and working towards your next role.
DURATION
In learning 16 months plus End Point Assessment.
1 PROGRESS REVIEW WITH YOUR MANAGER EVERY 12 WEEKS
Behaviours are an important part of the programme in helping to shape and drive high performance.
ROLE MODEL
INCLUSIVE
COMMERCIAL AWARENESS
AGILE
TAKES RESPONSIBILITY
PROFESSIONALISM
DECISION-MAKING
PROACTIVE
During the Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Assistant programme you will develop a range of knowledge, skills and behaviours, including:
Buying and merchandising strategies
Industry standards and legal requirements
Product lifecycle: development to customer
Negotiation methods aligned with strategy
Communication for operational success
Coaching and mentoring for team growth
Use market insights for product innovation
Develop customer-focused ranges aligned with brand
Apply strategy to meet business objectives
Deliver and maintain route to market
Leverage data for strategic decisions
Forecast demand through customer and product trends
You will have access to a Totum Card for just £14.99. Discount at 400+ brands and a Free Tastecard with Coffee Club (worth £79.99 a year).
"I came from a background in hospitality, so moving into buying and merchandising was a big change - but it’s a profession I’ve come to really enjoy. This apprenticeship felt like the perfect opportunity to advance myself and explore something I’ve grown passionate about.
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is how the world around us - from global events to customer behaviour - directly impacts what we do every day. The training has opened my eyes to that wider picture.
The best part is being able to do the job I love while developing myself at the same time. If you’re thinking about it, my advice is simple: just do it!"
Rafiza, Level 4 Buying & Merchandising Apprentice
INTERESTED IN A B&Q APPRENTICESHIP?
Be proactive. Be ambitious. Be you.
Apply now and take the next step in your career at B&Q.
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