Niamh O'Brien, Retail Graduate at Applegreen

Why did you apply for Applegreen?

The rotational structure of Applegreen’s graduate programme was one of the main deciding factors for me. As a BComm graduate with a broad business background, Applegreen’s rotations allow for the exploration of various departments. It delivers great business exposure, while providing the opportunity to discover which department within the business best suits my strengths and interests.

What are you favourite parts of the programme?

One of my favourite aspects of the programme is the bond built between the graduates. We have been involved in many team building exercises and have led various projects together. I have found great friendships through this programme.

What is the culture like?

Applegreen has a flat and open culture, providing early exposure to senior management. This was a huge selling point for me as I think this exposure is invaluable to us graduates as we begin our business careers.

What do other graduates/new starters enjoy when they start working here and what do they find most challenging?

I would say new starters enjoy the entrepreneurial spirit of Applegreen. If you have an idea, you are encouraged to share that idea and are given every scope to bring that idea to life if deemed feasible. I would also say that new starters enjoy the positive spirit and rapport among employees. Keeping up with the constant fast-paced environment might be something that new starters struggle with.

How have you found the training and development?

It is clear that great time and effort has been put into our training and development. We have many off-site days where we take part in ‘future leader workshops'.

We have also been given the opportunity to complete two diplomas, including excel and project management. These diplomas are huge in differentiating Applegreen’s graduate training and development from other graduate programmes.

What are the benefits of starting your professional career in the retail industry?

Aside from the wealth of business knowledge, I also believe that there are great interpersonal skills to be learnt from the retail industry. This industry will set us up with the natural ability to get on well with people as we grow our careers in the corporate world.