Sales Executive Trainee — Lathams Limited

Join Lathams Limited at JAMES LATHAM LEEDS as a Sales Executive Trainee and begin a practical career in sales within distribution, warehouse and apprenticeship contexts. This entry-level role supports the commercial team by learning to manage customer relationships, understand product ranges and contribute to sales growth.

Purpose of the role

The Sales Executive Trainee will learn to support day-to-day sales activities, develop commercial knowledge of products and supply chains, and build customer-facing skills to convert enquiries into repeat business. This role is a stepping stone to a fully qualified sales position within the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Support the sales team with customer enquiries, quotations and order processing.
• Learn product ranges, pricing structures and stock availability relevant to distribution and warehouse operations.
• Maintain accurate customer records and update CRM or order systems as required.
• Assist with preparing sales reports, order tracking and basic analysis to support decision-making.
• Communicate professionally with internal teams (warehouse, logistics, customer service) to ensure timely fulfilment.
• Participate in training, coaching and on-the-job learning to develop sales techniques and product knowledge.

Essential skills and experience

• Good verbal and written communication skills and a professional telephone manner.
• Customer-service focus with the ability to build rapport and respond promptly to enquiries.
• Strong organisation and attention to detail when processing orders and maintaining records.
• Ability to learn product and supply-chain information quickly and apply it when advising customers.
• Comfortable working as part of a team and following established procedures.

Desirable skills and experience

• Some experience in retail, distribution, warehouse or customer-facing roles.
• Familiarity with CRM or order management systems, spreadsheets or basic data entry.
• Interest in progressing into a sales or account-management role.

Qualifications

• A relevant GCSE or equivalent is typical for this trainee level; evidence of numeracy and literacy is useful.
• Any vocational qualifications or apprenticeship experience in sales, distribution or supply chain are advantageous but not essential.

What we offer

This is a full-time, permanent role. The organisation typically offers a competitive salary and a benefits package comparable to similar roles in distribution and sales, such as on-the-job training, opportunities for professional development, and workplace benefits aligned with company policy. Specific pay and benefit details will be provided during the recruitment process.