FAQs
Q. What are the steps to becoming a branch manager (Career progression)?
A. The two year Graduate Development Programme will give you the skills, experience and knowledge so that ultimately, you will be able to progress to a branch manager role shortly after the end of the programme. These skills are predominantly:
- People Management & Leadership
- Financial Management
- Customer Relationship Management
- Commercial Management & Business Strategy
- Inventory Management
- Lean
- Leading Edge Technology
- Marketing & Promotions
However, you may prefer to go into another related role such as Business Development Manager, and we would tailor the programme to you if this were your preference.
Q. What are the progression routes after becoming a branch manager (are there any)?
A. High performing branch managers should aim to progress to another role within 2 years of becoming a branch manager. The opportunities are extensive, including progression to the roles of Area Sales & Operations Manager, Regional Sales Manager or into a head office management position. In addition, the benefit of working for a large national and global organisation is that the career development opportunities across the Unipart Group are vast.
Q. Is the Unipart Way training the same as what we offer on the Group Scheme, if not, what training is there?
A. The Unipart Way training within Unipart Automotive is fundamentally the same as the Group training but tailored to the needs of our business unit.
Q. What would be the main working days?
A. Whilst you are on the graduate scheme your working days would be Monday to Friday
Q. What would be the main working hours?
A. The working hours would be 40 hours per week: 8am to 5pm or the hours to suit the branch opening hours where you are on placement.
Q. Where are the positions based?
A. The positions will primarily be based in one of 12 Areas across the UK. You will be linked to a home branch and will carry out placements in other branches. In addition, you are likely to be based at our head office in Oxford for up to 6 months during the head office phase of the programme along with attending central training events. You will need to be geographically mobile to get the best from placements and you definitely also need to have a full UK driving licence.
Q. I need a Work Permit to work in the UK. Will Unipart support my application?
A. Unfortunately Unipart is unable to support applications for Work Permits. You will need to have a Tier 1 Visa in order to apply to Unipart.
Q. When is your closing date for applications?
A. We do not have application deadlines as such as they encourage 'batching' which is not lean! Instead we encourage you to register your interest with us as soon as you have decided you are interested in what we have to offer (the link is on the Recruitment Process page). We will then send you a personalised web link to complete the application form. Our assessments are currently being held between February and April so you need to register your interest now. Please see the Recruitment Process page for more information.
Q. What are your entry requirements?
A. We will take particular interest in applicants who have studied business studies, management or lean techniques, or who have worked in the automotive aftermarket. Most important is that you are able to demonstrate that you would be able to lead change, influence and inspire others. We will teach you all you need to know about managing a small business and give you the opportunity to practice what you have learned.
Q. I graduated some time ago. Is this an issue?
A. The only requirement is that you have a degree or equivalent. Relevant work experience will be of interest to us, but any work experience is viewed positively. Age is not an issue within the selection process.
Q. Where can I find out more about lean?
A. The Unipart website contains more information about lean.
