- Name: Ben Sinclair
- Role: Trainee Merchandiser - Men's Formal
- University: University of Leicester
- Degree: Economics
Description:
I wanted to be able to use my analytical and business knowledge to
challenge myself in a very hands-on situation. Merchandising at Next
allows you to get very involved in the product you are working
Next offers training and support that is unparalleled when training as a
Merchandiser. Throughout your first few months in the business, you are
able to go on training courses that teach you how to use all the
systems, in addition to the finer details of the product. Even as a
trainee, you are able to influence the range immediately, your opinions
are valued from day one. This means you soon get to see your hard work
in-store and online at such a large international retailer.
Time-management, communication and organisational skills are crucial. As
a trainee you need the ability to work well with your team, which will
include other Merchandisers, Buyers, Designers and Technologists, to
create the best possible range of your product area. When there are
quite a few opinions in the room, you need to have the confidence and
communication skills to get your views and opinions across. The role
requires constant communication and strong relationships with suppliers
to ensure the right product, arrives at the right time, in the correct
quantity.
It’s a cliché, but there is no typical day as a trainee merchandiser,
every day is different. The foundations of the job are to help develop
and manage a successful range of product to deliver to our customers. To
deliver this, you will find yourself involved in every step of the way,
from visiting suppliers, to analysing the sales and rebuying on the best
sellers. Being in contact with your suppliers daily to deliver the best
possible product and managing their deliveries is a vital part of the
job.
There is a huge amount of support to help your development at Next, from
your own team and managers, to the training team. Everybody is
incredibly passionate, working towards one goal, to put out the best
possible product range for our customers. In addition to the support
offered at work, there are regular social events organised for trainees
to meet other trainees from around the business.