Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship

A fully on-site Retail Leadership Apprenticeship at Dunelm combining store work and a university degree to develop you into a future store manager.

Overview

Be comfortable thinking big.

Our Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship is a thoughtfully structured development pathway designed to help you build a long‑term career in retail. From day one, you’ll gain the skills, experience and confidence you need to grow into a leadership role and, over time, become part of a store’s management team.

At Dunelm, we genuinely care about seeing our colleagues grow. That’s why as a Future Retail Leader, internal progression plays such an important part in how we develop our colleagues. Over four and a half years, you’ll be supported and challenged in equal measure, with the space to learn, try new things and find your own leadership style.

You’ll be paired with experienced mentors who’ve been on this journey themselves - people who know the role inside out and are there to guide you every step of the way.

Throughout the programme, you’ll experience every aspect of life in store, working as a valued colleague and learning what it takes to deliver great experiences for our customers. As your confidence and capability grow, you’ll build towards becoming a Store Coach (Manager), ready to lead a team and run a successful store.

Alongside your role in store, you’ll study towards a Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship with Kingston University, learning on a part‑time basis while putting your knowledge into practice every day at Dunelm. It’s a chance to learn, earn and grow - all while feeling supported, valued and right at home.

What you'll be doing

What we'll look for in you

• You are Customer obsessed - you put the customer first in every interaction

• You'll enjoy contributing to a welcoming environment that feels like home, for our colleagues and our customers 

• Ideally, previous experience of working within a fast-paced retail, service or hospitality environment.

• Be 18 or older – for university entry requirement purposes.

• Have the right of abode and right to work in the UK.

•  GCSE Mathematics and English Language (grade 4, or previously grade C) or equivalent.

Please note: We will evaluate any applicants who do not have all the relevant qualifications

Due to high interest in applications this position may close earlier than advertised. To avoid disappointment, we'd encourage you apply as soon as possible.

D&I statement

Dunelm is committed to becoming an inclusive business that is representative of our customers and locations. We recognise the value in diversity and welcome applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, religion, disability, gender or sexual identity, socio-economic background or education.

We are committed to making Dunelm a place where everyone can enjoy a successful career and have systems in place to support all our colleagues. We are seeking applications from candidates who share our values and celebrate diversity in all its forms.

Our commitment to you

Accessibility allows everyone to have an equitable chance when applying and showing off their potential, which helps us create a more inclusive and diverse team that brings fresh ideas and perspectives.