Stockport retail group launches management development scheme

Employee-owned wholesaler and retail group, Stockport-based Parfetts, has launched a management development scheme to support the business’ next generation of talent.

The first four trainees to take part in the scheme will go through a structured programme and work 16 weeks in different key departments of the business over the next two years.

Guy Swindell, joint managing director of Parfetts, said:

“Parfetts growth is driven by its people and culture. Traditionally, we have always promoted from within where possible and provided training to ensure people are equipped to do well. As the business continues to grow, it is clear that we need to diversify our talent pool and develop the next generation of talent, and I’m confident that we’ve developed a scheme that will provide a best in class experience for these young people. We’ve called the scheme the Limitless Programme because we believe the depth and breadth of the training will equip the participants for a thriving career in the wholesale sector.”

The first cohort to take part in the new management development scheme come from a range of backgrounds, including law, construction and hospitality. Their first two weeks will be focused on getting a basic understanding of the business by spending time in each depot, retail, and all departments within Parfetts’ Stockport Head Office.

Louise Slater, head of HR and compliance at Parfetts, added:

“We’ve put a lot of thought into structuring the programme to develop our young talent. The selection process was rigorous and workshop based to ensure that we are recruiting the right set of skills.”

Parfetts operates the fast-growing Go Local fascia with over 1000 stores and one of the largest retail clubs with over 5,000 members. It operates across the North, Midlands and Wales through a national logistics network, digital channels and seven wholesale depots.

Image: The first four trainees taking part in Parfetts’ management development scheme (L-R) Jonathan Webb, Jack Seddon, Denxel Osarenmwinda, Michael Whalley.