Dealership group launches ‘Jump Start’ trainee scheme

Dealership group Lookers, which operates a number of car retail showrooms in Stockport, has announced plans to create 80 new jobs as part of a nationwide ‘Jump Start’ sales trainee scheme.

Prospective candidates from across Stockport are being urged to apply for the programme which will include dedicated classroom and on-the-job training for every candidate keen to carve out a rewarding career in the thriving UK motor industry. Mentorship will be a key component of the pioneering programme, with each candidate allocated a dedicated, specially-trained mentor from the start, ensuring every new recruit gets the best support and guidance available.

The dealership group is investing heavily in its employees as part of its ‘people first’ strategy which underlines its commitment to promoting and nurturing talent and capability at all levels. Last month, Lookers confirmed its largest-ever intake of apprenticeships, with plans to take on a record 208 young people in maintenance, servicing and parts across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Steered by Danny Bishop, Lookers’ new Head of Learning and Development, ‘Jump Start’ has been designed to fast-track fulfilling careers in sales for ambitious people of all ages; he said:

“As one of the UK and Ireland’s automotive industry leaders, Lookers is roundly recognised for the quality, depth and range of car brands on offer and for the exceptional aftersales service we provide.

We are also committed to leading in the provision of excellence in sales and customer service which is why we are investing in ‘Jump Start’, which has been carefully designed to recruit fresh, ambitious and friendly go-getters who recognise the importance of customer care.”

Welcoming the new recruitment initiative, Duncan McPhee, Chief Operating Officer at Lookers Plc, added:

“The strength, passion and commitment of our people are behind Lookers’ success and I’m confident that our continued investment in learning, development, skills and training will continue to yield solid and sustainable results.

Providing new opportunities, shaping great careers and supporting their careers is our top priority and I’m delighted that ‘Jump Start’ will help to spearhead new people with new energy to join us on the journey to even greater success.”

Lookers operates more than 150 franchised dealers representing 32 manufacturers in the UK and Ireland, and in Stockport operates Kia, Skoda, Renault, Dacia and Volvo dealerships.

Picture: Lookers’ Head of Learning and Development Danny Bishop (centre) with new trainees Asim Khan (left) and Abbie Smith (right).