Waitrose Retail Graduate Trainee - Scotland and North Regions

Embark on a Transformative Career Journey with Waitrose: The Retail Graduate Programme

Are you a recent graduate with a burning ambition to lead and innovate within the dynamic world of retail? The Waitrose Retail Graduate Programme offers an exceptional 24-month opportunity designed to sculpt the next generation of leaders for Waitrose & Partners, with a specific focus on shaping the future of our retail presence across Scotland and the North Region.

This programme is more than just a job; it's a meticulously crafted pathway for aspiring Branch Managers. If you envision yourself at the forefront of retail operations, guiding teams and driving success, this programme provides the comprehensive guidance, preparation, and support you need to achieve that goal.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Retail Leaders:

• Comprehensive Development: Over two years, you will immerse yourself in hands-on, structured rotational placements. These will span both our core and convenience store models, alongside invaluable experience at our central head office. This holistic approach ensures you gain a deep understanding of every facet of our retail operations.
• Accelerated Career Progression: The programme is specifically designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel. By its conclusion, you will be well on your way to becoming a Waitrose Branch Manager, ready to take on significant responsibility.
• Generous Remuneration and Benefits: The programme offers a competitive salary range of £31,000 - £41,000 per annum. Additionally, for any time worked between 22:00 and 06:00, a Night Premium of £4.50 per hour is provided, recognizing the commitment required for round-the-clock operations.
• Unique Ownership Model: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you will become a co-owner. This means sharing in the rewards and responsibilities of the UK's largest employee-owned business, fostering a profound sense of belonging and influence.
• Exposure to Diverse Retail Formats: Gain experience across both large-format core stores and agile convenience models, broadening your retail acumen and adaptability.
• Hybrid Working Flexibility: While significant time will be spent in our shops, the programme incorporates up to one day a week at our Bracknell Head Office campus during certain placements, offering a blend of operational and strategic exposure.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Commitment to Learning and Growth: This is an intensive programme. Candidates should possess a genuine passion for grocery retail, a focus on continuous improvement, and a curious, creative, and analytical mindset.
• Geographic Flexibility: Your shop rotation locations will generally be within a reasonable commuting distance (approximately one hour or 30 miles) of your home. However, the role necessitates significant travel and a flexible rota across the trading week, as some rotations are field-based and cover entire shop regions.
• Degree Requirement: Applicants must be on track to achieve, or have achieved, an honours degree within the last 12 months, graduating in 2025 or 2026.
• Weekend and Evening Work: A commitment to working 37.5 hours per week, including rotational weekend working, early starts, and late finishes, is fundamental to the role.
• Structured Application Process: Be prepared for a multi-stage selection process, including a recruiter screening call and an in-person interview. Assessment dates are scheduled for Mid-January 2026.
• Early Application Recommended: Due to the competitive nature of this programme, vacancies can close early. It is advisable to submit your application as soon as possible.

This Waitrose Retail Graduate Programme is an exceptional launchpad for a fulfilling and impactful career in retail management. It offers a unique blend of practical experience, strategic insight, and the unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of a beloved retail brand as a co-owner.