Assistant Merchandise Planner Review

As a merchandiser at Tesco, my role consists of several business critical tasks, the majority of which congregate around the forecasting and reporting of our sales performance on my category. Alongside this I also help construct our ranges, and land them through our Supply Chain Team. My role also involves constant contact with our supply base.

Yes, both through the Apprenticeship syllabus and Tesco itself. Key skills such as my communication, collaboration, resilience and my ability to manage my own mental well being have been key takeaways, alongside a large suite of technical office skills in multiple programmes such as Excel, Word & Powerpoint. My own retail acumen has also been greatly improved, priming me for work in the industry.

It was very enjoyable. However, the amount of written work did often clash with my work inside the business, resulting in it becoming very difficult to complete my apprenticeship to a high standard; along with the extra stress and other negative effects. While it was an overall positive experience, the sometimes pedantic nature of the written tasks was frustrating, especially as some concepts were repeated multiple times over multiple units.

The actual coaching side is very well structured, however organisation within Tesco is less than ideal. While I felt my coach was on top of things, Tesco's side was often neglected and poorly managed. While I felt I had support from my coach, support from Tesco (outside of my own line manager) felt lacking. The businesses' own understanding of what we had to do, had not been explained by the Apprenticeship team, leading to some conflicts.

Less than was advertised. At the start of my programme a high level of support was on offer, with quarterly up-skilling & networking sessions, however as my time progressed, this support was cut back. A supposed third year of Tesco leadership courses was originally on the programme, however this has never materialised.

Support from my coach was exemplary. She was always on hand to assist on any questions I had, and help to clear up any confusion I may have had on my tasks. She also clearly knew the syllabus inside out, which really helped to provide clear concise answers to any confusion I may have had.

It helps a lot. Much of what we were taught through the qualification has helped me to manage several areas of my role. In particular many of the skills and principles taught for Project Management and Stakeholder Management have been incredibly useful in my job. Alongside this skills in presenting, communication and resource management have also been useful.

Tesco have set up an Apprentice and Graduate society, who regularly schedule talks and events for the group. However, as time has gone on these events have shrunk in size and ambition, and perfectly encapsulate Tesco's own attitude to the courses. With a feeling of neglect and lack of support creeping in over time.

Yes

The skills you receive are invaluable within the wider retails world, with Tesco's high standards training you to a degree above its competitors. The chance to work in a leading edge organisation is also invaluable. With exciting conversations being had every day, and the knowledge that your decisions will be reflected across all of the UK.

Focus on the customer, and don't be afraid to be different. Coming to interviews and work as an individual, rather than as one of a crowd is a great way to ensure you are always getting on. Also ensure you are constantly vocal, and putting your hand up for work outside of your role.