Operations Apprentice

BENEFIT COSMETICS; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic cosmetic company in Chelmsford is looking for a proactive Operations Apprentice to join their team. This position offers the chance to learn essential operational functions and contribute to customer service. Responsibilities include processing Purchase Orders, supporting product launches, and data management, making it ideal for someone eager to grow in an operational environment. Excellent communication and strong attention to detail are key for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn and develop Excel skills.
• Ability to manage different priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Learn how to process Purchase Orders for independent retailers.
• Assist in creating customs documentation for Irish exports.
• Support team with internal and external Proof of Delivery requests.
• Help process internal orders accurately.
• Consolidate New Product Development Purchase Orders for launches.
• Update daily operations reports and assist with ad hoc requests.

Skills

Interest in IT

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Customer service focus

Job description

Overview

We're looking for a proactive Operations Apprentice to join our busy team. This is an exciting opportunity to learn the essential functions of our operations department, with a strong focus on supporting our customer service efforts. You'll gain hands‑on experience in various operational tasks, contributing to the smooth running of our business and ensuring excellent service for our independent retailers.

You will work closely with experienced team members, receiving guidance and training to develop your skills in order processing, new product launches, data management, and much more. This role is perfect for someone eager to learn and grow within an operational setting.

Responsibilities

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES - What you will learn and help with:

• Purchase Order (PO) Processing Support:
  • Learn how to accurately process Purchase Orders for our independent retailers in the UK and Ireland, ensuring they meet agreed timelines.
  • Assist in creating necessary weekly customs documentation for Irish exports.
  • Support the team with internal and external Proof of Delivery (POD) requests.
  • Help process internal orders, ensuring correct cost centres and accurate delivery details.
  • Provide support for larger etail and National Account Manager (NAM) accounts as needed.
  • Assist with processing staff allocation orders for Ireland and associated customs documents.
• New Product Launch Assistance:
  • Help consolidate New Product Development (NPD) Purchase Orders as they are received in the lead-up to product launches.
  • Learn to update order vs. allocation reports using internal reporting tools.
• Supply Ordering & Data Entry (NSV and Smartsheet):
  • Support the team in releasing monthly NSV Purchase Orders and responding to order tracking requests.
  • Assist in creating ad hoc Purchase Orders when required.
• New Store Opening Support:
  • Work with the Visual Merchandising team and our Sales Development Managers (SDMs) to process orders for new store openings.
• Data Management and Checks:
  • Assist in liaising with the global Supply Planning team regarding inbound DRP issues (such as missing, damaged, or excess stock).
  • Help confirm external product IDs for the UK Distribution Centre (UKDC) team.
  • Support the team in checking for historical open transfer orders and coordinating their closure.
• Reporting Support:
  • Learn to update daily operations reports and assist with any ad hoc requests from the UKDC team.

Qualifications

• A keen interest in IT and willingness to learn and develop Excel skills.
• Eagerness to understand and help manage different priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Good communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Strong attention to detail, with a "right first time" attitude.
• Highly organised approach to tasks.
• A positive attitude towards providing excellent customer service.