“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship - it's been one of the best things I have ever done!”

Senior Business Analyst

It's 23 years since I started at Brakes as a Telesales Operator at Bishop's Stortford. So much has happened since I started! I am currently a Senior Business Analyst and my role is very varied - I never know what I will be asked to do next, it's always full of new and exciting opportunities. One of these new opportunities that came my way in autumn 2017 was the chance to complete an Apprenticeship in Management and since joining the course I haven't looked back! Not only am I learning skills that help me in my current role but it has also opened so many doors for me and exposed me to people and situations that I wouldn't otherwise have had the opportunity to see. The support has been amazing too, from colleagues in my own team right up to our senior leaders across the business, I know that if I need help or support I only need to pick up the phone. I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone wanting to learn new skills and accelerate your career, it's been one of the best things I have ever done.

“The graduate scheme is dynamic, as is Brakes, and opportunities are constantly arising!”

Supply Chain Ops Graduate

After only Six months into the Operations and Supply chain graduate scheme, I’ve already gained an insight into the overall warehouse operation and taken part in projects that directly impact our operatives on the shop floor, as well as the service to our customers. I’ve also had the great opportunity to spend time with, network and be mentored by senior managers in the business, something unique to the Brakes graduate scheme. This investment from my superiors was made clear even at the assessment centre. It was a relaxed day that really showcased the values of Brakes (and the incredible food truck), and gave us, as applicants, plenty of chances to demonstrate a range of our skills throughout the whole day, from team work, to communicating and presenting, all before our interview.

The graduate scheme is dynamic, as is Brakes, and opportunities are constantly arising to get involved in different areas of the business as well as exciting new projects. Throughout the rest of my time on the programme, I hope to spend time in Distribution, Supply Chain and Engineering and I look forward to developing my skills and understanding of the business in order to put me in a good position to take on a permanent role.

"I'm feeling really positive about developing further within the business!"

Supply Chain Ops Graduate

I joined Brakes a graduate, fresh from Uni - the assessment centre was well organised and I was made to feel at ease, encouraged to relax and present the best version of myself to some really key people. I really enjoyed the day and it gave me a fair chance to make an impression in different situations. On the programme, I’ve rotated through structured placements which allowed me to be part of teams in multiple departments and sites with the chance to develop leadership skills, from working with colleagues on the shop floor, to making an impact on projects at head office. I’ve had exposure to very real operational environments where I’ve had a direct impact on the service we provide to our customers. I’ve learnt the value of building a network and creating positive relationships which has really supported me as I’ve navigated through different parts of the business. There has also been regular development activities to allow me to understand more about my strengths and weakness and how to be an effective leader. Over the 2 years, I have enjoyed learning about how our business works, and what challenges our colleagues face in trying to deliver the best for our customers which has set me up in a great position for my current role which focuses on continuous improvement, but I’m still learning and feeling positive about developing further in this business!

“It’s brilliant that our Apprenticeships are open to both new and existing colleagues”

CUSTOMER CARE MANAGER

I've worked for Brakes since 14th January 2002, where I started as a depot-based Customer Care and Admin operator. I got the opportunity to become involved in H&S, ECF, Comms Champions and our Meals & More charity. I've learnt so much over the years and my confidence has grown so much, I am now a Customer Care Manager with a team of 11.  To help in my development and add to my skills, I took on an even bigger challenge in 2017 - I applied to complete an Apprenticeship in Management and I can honestly say I've not looked back!  It’s brilliant that our Apprenticeships are open to both new and existing colleagues!  I love working for Brakes and I love coming to work to face the challenges of the day, the support and encouragement you get from everyone is fantastic. I love that you can pick up the phone to a senior manager and know you will be helped with your query. The opportunities just keep on coming!