Merchandising Adminstrator Review

I am a merchandising administrator. I assist my manager everyday performing a number of tasks to help with his role as well as working independently to manage my sections of the area. Such as ordering stock, I also manage the stock levels on my area, taking price action where necessary and communicating with suppliers to negotiate changes to planned stocks. As well as this I analyse sales continuously in order to help drive the business forward through strategic decisions, similar to this I help select the range that is featured in stores by providing the team with the numbers behind the products. Alongside this I have days out of office with my learndirect coach to learnt he different units for the qualification, after each of these development days I have to complete assignments which are graded a pass, merit or distinction. In addition to this I complete verbal assessments, provide my coach with evidence from my day job and my manager provides witness testimonies. These combined amount to the level 4 diploma in business and professional administration.

My communication skills have developed massively through communication with suppliers as well as the teams inside Tesco. I have attended many training courses such as presenting yourself with confidence and resilience and vitality. I also have the opportunity to complete negotiating training externally.

I enjoy the role I am in and the team I work with, this has exceeded my expectations and I look to continue my career here.

I feel appreciated and feel as though my contributions are making a difference to the businesses performance. This has been highlighted through performance reviews.

I feel it is structured and know it is improving with the new starters. I am given 5 study days to take a year to complete my apprenticeship work, the new starters get a day off every fortnight.

I receive a large amount of support and my training provider has made it clear I can always ask for more.

My employer supports me greatly but more in my role than in my apprenticeship.

My salary covers my costs of living, bills etc and leaves me with a "nice" amount of disposable income.

There are limited company events/activities however there is an apprenticeship and graduate team who occasionally organise events such as payday drinks.

Yes

I believe the scheme is a great start to a career in business. Even if you are not on a scheme I would recommend Tesco as it provides many opportunities to move areas within the business. For example you could start in commercial and move to marketing or HR.

If you are applying for a scheme the process is long and can be daunting however all stages are manageable and achievable. The assessment centre is a great experience and you can see all feedback after which adds a large amount of value to your interview and presentation skills. It's also a great opportunity to meet people who are high up in the business.