About
Employer description
At Howdens we invest in our people and provide thorough on the job training and excellent career progression opportunities. We have been awarded a place in the top 25 Best Big Companies to Work for in recognition of excellence in the workplace. We are proud of our substantial growth and remain committed to success through the expansion of our local depot network. Howdens remains a local business with traditional values and we are seeking talented people to help us continue to grow our business.
We are seeking talented individuals to join our award-winning apprenticeship scheme and help drive our business forward. As a Business Developer, you will play a pivotal role in building relationships with new and existing customers, using telephone sales techniques to generate business and encourage new leads.
Main description
As an apprentice, you’ll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You’ll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.
What you’ll do at work
At Howdens we invest in our people and provide thorough on the job training and excellent career progression opportunities, reflected in our placement at Number 17 in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers table 2022.
We are proud of our substantial growth and remain committed to success through the expansion of our local depot network. Despite its scale, Howdens remains a local business with traditional values and we are seeking talented people to help us continue to grow our business.
The Role:
- Provide potential and existing customers with the highest level of customer service and support the wider sales team in generating and chasing leads
- Focus on effective customer account management, aiming to increase the company’s customer base and develop long term collaborative relationships within the building trade
- Maintain up to date product and industry knowledge
- Use creative marketing materials to promote Howdens products, depot events and sales periods to new and existing customers
- Keep in touch with both depots lead banks regularly via the telephone and using our customer engagement messaging tool
- Develop long term collaborative relationships with customers
- Proactively gain new accounts, repeat business and generate qualified leads for the team through outgoing sales calls
- Process sales for customers using the in store payment systems, quoting correct pricing, delivery date and stock requirements
Entry requirements
Essential qualifications
Personal and professional development (grade Desire)
Desirable qualifications
GCSE or equivalent in: English (grade 9-4 (A*-C)) and Mathematics (grade 9-4 (A*-C))
Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.
Skills required
- Communication skills
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Strong Relationship Builder
- Target Driven
- Planning
- Prioritise own Workload
Training to be provided
An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.
College or training organisation
INTEC BUSINESS COLLEGES LIMITED
Your training course
Customer service practitioner (level 2) Equal to GCSE
Your training plan
Customer Service Practitioner Level 2 Apprentinceship Standard
End Point Assessment
Work Based Training
Functional Skills in maths and English (if necessary)
Level 2 Customer Service qualification
Future prospects
At Howdens, there are great opportunities to progress into one of many key depot roles including sales and management.
Closing Date
The closing date for this job offer is on 06/01/2025
Salary
£15,000 per year
Location
This job is located in Cambridge, Cambs
More Information and How to Apply
About West Suffolk College
West Suffolk College is an ambitious vocational and academic College, with a stunning main campus set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. We are committed to providing outstanding education to all our students.
