John Lewis Graduate Merchandising Scheme
John Lewis’ enormous range of quality products doesn’t just need to be popular and appealing to all of our customers. Crucially, it needs to deliver profit for the business. That’s where our Merchandisers come in, as they secure and purchase stock whilst carefully managing financial targets.
Join our Graduate Merchandising Scheme and we’ll nurture you into one of the finest Merchandising professionals in the retail industry. You’ll benefit from a richly engaging development programme that offers long-term career potential via a structured yet flexible path:
- During your first year with us you’ll be given an entry level position in Merchandising, supported by training and development coaching to help you learn the ropes
- In your second year you should become an Assistant Merchandiser, involving line management duties and supporting the Merchandiser to deliver excellent stock management and meet the financial targets
- Following this, you’ll move to a different office to gain the broadest experience possible and work towards becoming a Merchandiser
- You should aim to become a fully-fledged Merchandiser within three to five years
What we’re looking for
Many people think Merchandising is about picking and choosing gorgeous products. On the contrary, it’s about ensuring the profit margins on our vast array of product lines – so an affinity with numbers as an absolutely vital quality. Likewise, analytical ability, strong planning skills and the capacity to work well to targets are key traits we’re looking for. You’ll also be an excellent communicator who thrives in a deadline-driven, fast-paced environment.
Things to bear in mind
- This role includes a great deal of systems and computer-based work and the analysis of figures. If you do not enjoy this type of work, this scheme may not be for you.
- You’ll be based in our Head Office in Victoria, London.
- This scheme should not be confused with Visual Merchandising which deals with display and product promotions.
