A GATESHEAD-headquartered motor dealership has launched a nationwide apprenticeship programme.

One hundred and twenty newly created customer service apprentice vacancies have gone live across the UK with Vertu Motors, the UK’s fifth largest motor retailer.

The 120 new roles are in addition to more than 80 Modern Apprentice Technician vacancies that will be launched over the coming months, as part of the group’s annual intake of technical apprentices.

Unlike many traditional apprenticeships, the new programme is actively seeking more candidates with retail or comparable experience, as well as those just out of higher or further education.

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The firm is offering an initial salary of £18,000 while the apprentice completes a bespoke Level 3 Apprenticeship programme.

The customer service apprenticeship will offer a mix of learning, delivered in the workplace and in the classroom, with e-learning implemented where necessary.

The salary moves to at least £23,500 after successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Chief Executive Robert Forrester said: “Recruiting the right candidates is vital to the success of our business and this is increasingly hard to do at the moment.

"As a fast-growing company we need talented people to join us to maintain and continue to build our momentum.

“We understand that to attract talent we must offer more than our competitors – not just in terms of remuneration, but also in opportunity for career development.

"We want people with life experience, who can engage with our customers, understand their needs and connect with them.

“While we can teach processes and best practice, there is no training for personality and experience.

"It’s a pathway to a new and rewarding career in motor retail and comes without the financial concerns that taking an entry level role could mean for some people.”

To apply for the apprenticeships, go to www.vertucareers.com/apprenticeships/

 

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