Trainee Buyer Review

Sample management - in terms of keeping them organised and tidy Approvals - shade bands, lab dips, wash references Managing and going into fit sessions to fill out the workbooks based on the techs comments Racking up product correctly for meetings based on what is required, including labeling and imagery Administrative tasks such as emails, amendments, reviewing trade etc. Booking in meetings/organizing the diary

Better time management/organisation of time in order to get tasks completed in line with deadlines Better organisation in general in order to keep samples tidy to ensure they are easy for the whole team to find Stronger and more confident communication both face to face and via emails I have become more flexible and better at dealing/managing last minute changes

I enjoy the diverseness of the job programme and that we are given the opportunity to work within buying and merchandising, I believe this aspect is invaluable as both go hand in hand to help with the other. I also like the fact that you join the course with 9 others at the same time so you call share experiences and go through the process together.

The structure of the programme needs to be revised as I think at times it can be unorganized. For example, our cohort didn't know that we were allowed 20% of each week to be dedicated to college studies/off the job training. This would have led to spending less time on college assignments out of work and at weekends. I also don't think the college side is thought through enough as we are currently studying subject such as critical path etc. that a lot of us have been doing in our day to day role for the last two years.

I think if all mangers knew the full extent of what we have to do at college assignment wise they would be a lot more supportive. But it is purely down to the fact that most aren't aware as when they do find out I have found my mangers were very supportive. All this would take is an initial communication/meeting to highlight this. However, we do have quarterly progress reviews which do allow us to go through outstanding work/what we are doing well at with our tutor and manager.

We have catch ups/tutorials most college sessions which allows us to share any concerns we might have with outstanding assignments. This is also useful to talk about what we are doing at work that may help towards our off the job training. I also think they are quite understanding if things don't get handed in on time due to work pressures etc.

I think most of my skills development and knowledge comes from working in head office, however, I find the time at college allows you to think more about 'why' you are carrying out the tasks you do everyday in your role rather than just getting into a routine of doing them without thinking why.

Each area (ladieswear, menswear, F&A, marketing etc.) is given a month to focus on to provide fun and activities. We often have bake sales and raffles in the office. We also have department away days and F&F parties which allow you to socialise more. F&F are quite good at trying to think of way to make things a bit more interesting around the everyday working week.

Yes

Because I think, particularly at the start of your career, it is a great way to get in depth knowledge and training on the area of choice. Due to the fact that Tesco is a global company you have a lot of resources available to help with your job, training and progression

To be really passionate about the area you are applying for, I believe this is something they really look for in the interview stages. Other areas I believe they look for are innovation and a willingness to learn and build on your skills, particularly if you are applying to an apprenticeship.