Sainsburys - Graduate Buying Scheme

Sainsbury's is more than just a food retailer; it is a diverse business that enjoys universal appeal and a rich 140 year heritage. As one of the top retailers in the FTSE 100 there are a number of different ways for graduates to get involved. It is looking for exceptional graduates that will help bring fresh talent and ideas to the business and who are hungry to play a part of its continued success.

What does the scheme involve?
Buyers maintain our goal of delivering "great products at fair prices", sourcing thousand of products and handling multimillion pound product negotiations.

We have two buying schemes.
Our Food Buying team is based in our London Store Support Centre, whilst our General Merchandise Buying team is based in Coventry Store Support Centre.

Whichever scheme you join, you will return after your in store placement and take up responsibility for a particular category area - from buying pears to French wine in our Food team, or homeware, cookware or lighting in our General Merchandise team. You'll develop close working relationships with colleagues and suppliers, and may get to travel; whether it's to Kent or Kenya, Scunthorpe or Shanghai depends on what you're buying.

What are we looking for?
Motivated people who thrive on tough targets and use judgement to make decisions at speed. You will need the versatility to adapt to changing environments and the resilience to negotiate effectively. Previous work experience in a customer-orientated role will be essential, as is a minimum of 2.1 or above in any degree discipline.

What skills will you develop?
As well as an in-depth knowledge of your buying area, you'll also develop expertise in negotiation, learn how to influence people and get the chance to gain a buying qualification.

What are the benefits?

• £23k starting salary with excellent salary progression
• 22 days holiday
• 10% staff discount after six months
• Discretionary annual bonus
• Internally recognised buying qualification
• Exciting, competitive, target-driven environment
• Full accountability for a product area
• Relationship-building with leading suppliers, some foreign travel (depending on your product areas)
• The ability to make decisions that affect every store in the business
• Responsibility for £1m + budgets Internally recognised buying qualification

How to apply
Once you have a feel for the business and which opportunity is right for you, you can begin your application. The online application process was voted as one of the best online recruitment systems by students.

Our selection process enables us to identify the right people to join the business, but it also enables you to decide if Sainsbury's is right for you.
Click the apply button below to start our web application process or to find out more.

Deadline for applications: 31st October