Wolseley UK Launches Graduate Scheme

A new Management Training programme has been launched by Wolseley UK in order to attract the very best graduates to the construction industry.

Wolseley UK is part of Wolseley plc, the world’s largest trade distributor of plumbing and heating products and a leading supplier of construction materials. Wolseley UK has 950 branches nationwide and 6,500 employees.

Its new 18-month Management Training programme gives graduates the opportunity to join a FTSE 100 company and become part of the next generation of managers and there are exciting vacancies in operations, marketing, supply chain and sourcing, starting in October 2013.

For operational graduates, the programme begins with a nine-month placement in a branch, where trainees will spend more time in boots and a hi-vis jacket than in a suit, learning how to do business at the trade counter. There are a number of options for the next three-month placement, including undertaking project work with a senior manager.

The final placement involves being appointed to a deputy branch manager position, with support and training continuing for a further six months.

The programme itself is a combination of regular training sessions, online training and job shadowing, all of which are designed to provide the practical, hands-on experience required to be a Wolseley manager.

Trainees are supported throughout the programme by their placement manager, who assists in day-to-day activities; a coach from the senior management team, offering advice and guidance; and a mentor; many of which are former graduates and have been through schemes like this one.

Mairead Golding, Leadership Development Manager, Wolseley UK said: “One of our key people goals is to have the best branch staff and I believe our Management Training programme is another great way of making this happen.

“We’re keen to hear from anyone with the potential to succeed, whether they are a recent graduate or an existing employee who has a degree and wants to make the move into management.

“We’re looking for people who will roll-up their sleeves, make decisions and use their initiative. In return, we’ll give them the experience they need to take on a management position within 12 months.”

For more details and to apply, please visit www.wolseleygraduates.com. Assessment Centres take place in July 2013.