B&Q is launching a new retail management graduate programme, providing on-the-job retail experience.
Kingfisher UK & Ireland chief executive Euan Sutherland announced the new scheme at B&Q's MPs reception at the House of Commons yesterday.

The retailer aims to take on 20 graduates in the first year of the programme's launch, with plans to offer work placements and summer internships in the following year.

Successful candidates will get a real insight into the world of retail and management responsibility, said B&Q, and will be placed into different management roles within two to three years, and appointed to a store manager role by the end of the scheme.

The candidates will get a starting salary of £25,000, and will also receive support from a B&Q mentor.

Mr Sutherland said: "Here at B&Q people are at the heart of what we do and so we are looking for young talent with bags of enthusiasm and a great attitude to work in our team. Competition in the graduates' job market is fierce but successful candidates will be offered a fantastic fast-track learning experience which will see them running their own store in two to three years."