Kitchen Sales Designer

Charlotte Mann

Howdens

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

I’ve worked for Howdens since May 2019, starting as a Business Administrator. I chose the apprenticeship route as the vacancy become available in our depot, and with the support of my manager I decided to take the chance on training and learning the new role to allow me to progress further within my career.

What do you get up to on an average day in your role?

On an average day, I will speak to trade customers who are on with any kitchens, visit end users whether it be to measure up for a new kitchen, or visit their recently fitted kitchen as a service visit. I may have customers come in to see me to go through kitchen plan, and then I also am working with our contracts leads in depot to assist with check measures, pricing and planning.

What do you enjoy about your job?

I enjoy working with the trades customers and end users to create their dream designs and kitchens. It is so satisfying going to visit the projects once they are complete and knowing I’ve helped to make a difference in their home. I also enjoy the team I work in, they become a second family and learn from each other from experience and also new skills.

What are the specific skills you have learnt that are unique to this industry?

The skills that I have learnt include: sale closing techniques, how to adapt yourself to your end user/trade customer, rules and regulations of building sites, using the CAD software.

Why should people consider a career in Kitchen Design?

I would 100% recommend to work for Howdens and go through the apprenticeship scheme. You obtain full support from your line manager and your tutor to allow you to excel and make the most beneficial career choices. Working as a kitchen designer is exciting as every day is different to the next, whether it’s going to a building site or an end users home! I feel that this is a company that really wants you to b successful in your career and will guide you to make the correct steps along the way.