Wincanton, the largest British logistics business, has launched a new graduate scheme with the aim of attracting and developing new talent in the logistics industry. This follows the company’s commitment to increasing engagement with graduates through participation in the NOVUS scheme. 

As a leading 3PL with high profile customers across sectors as diverse as retail, construction, defence and milk, Wincanton’s graduate scheme will provide a unique insight into logistics and the variety of roles available in the industry. The two-year graduate programme has been designed to enable participants to hit the ground running and work in a substantive role from day one and provide real opportunity to positively impact the business. The graduate programme provides placements across the UK and is now open to applications from anyone holding a 2:1 degree in any subject.

Jane Davies, Wincanton Group HR Director, said: “Logistics is fundamentally a people business. Despite this the industry has, in the past, struggled to demonstrate its appeal as a career option to new graduates and aspiring management talent.  With our new graduate scheme in place, combined with the NOVUS partnership, we are changing the perception of the logistics sector and are finding that we are able to attract new talent into our business.  We are proud that we can offer a programme of development for our graduates and future talent, as well as exciting career opportunities.”

The newly-launched graduate scheme follows the success of Wincanton’s collaboration with NOVUS. With an emphasis on supply chain management, NOVUS degree courses are offered at the University of Huddersfield and focus on close collaboration with many leading names in manufacturing, retail and logistics with the guarantee of a job following completion of the course.

NOVUS graduate James Fairhurst, who accepted his permanent role with Wincanton following his graduation, said of his first six months: “From day one I have been given the opportunity to get involved and learn a huge amount. My NOVUS degree has been a huge asset for me and I’m pleased to be able to work for a company like Wincanton that wants to actively invest in my continued development.” 

Following the continued success of the collaboration with NOVUS, Wincanton is again participating in the scheme for 2017 placements.