Graduates, Apprenticeships & Supported Employment

At DPD we believe in nurturing talent and developing individuals on a professional and personal level to be amazing every day.Our Graduate Development Programme and Apprenticeships are just one way that we demonstrate our commitment to development by growing and supporting our stars of tomorrow. DPD delivers inclusion by providing Work Experience, Supported Internships, Inclusive Apprenticeships, and employment for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, through its ‘DPD Inspire’ programme.

Graduates

Graduate Development

We offer exciting opportunities to join a fast paced, dynamic organisation with a strategy to double in size by 2025.

We currently have in excess of 40 Graduates either in, or working towards, substantive positions within DPD UK.

We continue to identify, recruit and develop high potential Graduates who will fulfil permanent positions upon completion of a development programme.

Graduates will be provided with opportunities to develop, but at the same time be expected to contribute and be productive.

To be part of this exciting opportunity you will need to be 'amazing' every day and aim to provide the best possible customer experience. We offer significant career and personal development opportunities, supported by structured training. Starting with our excellent induction programme through to a personalised development plan, we will give you the chance to continually develop yourself and your potential.

Graduate Profile & Recruitment Process

Graduate Profile

• Degree (not specific - 2:1 degree minimum)
• Graduates must be prepared to travel or work anywhere in the UK (role dependant)
• Full Driving licence required (role dependant)
• A Level x 3 (A-C Grades)
• Ability to demonstrate our core values;
• Respect
• Accountability
• Passion
• Flexibility
• Hard work
• Honesty

Recruitment Process

• Competency based Assessment Centre or two-stage interview depending upon role
• Psychometric and ability testing

Apprentices

Apprentice Scheme

This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast paced, dynamic organisation with a strategy to double in size by 2025.

We currently have in excess of 60 Apprentices in varying positions throughout our organisation including Mechanical Engineers, Marketing, Finance, Network Operations and People & Talent to name but a few.

We continue to identify, recruit and develop Apprentices who are able to show our DNA which incorporates Hard Work, Flexibility, Respect, Accountability, Honesty, and Passion

During your Apprenticeship you will be provided with opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills through vocational qualifications while at the same time contribute to the team you are placed in.

To be part of this exciting opportunity you will need to show our DNA and be 'amazing' everyday. We offer significant career and personal development opportunities, supported by structured training. Starting with our excellent induction programme to familiarise yourself with our organisation, then at approximately 3 months your apprenticeship will begin incorporating whichever qualification is required for you to learn and develop the skills you will need to succeed.

Apprenticeship Profile & Recruitment Process

Apprentice Profile

Four stage selection process:

• CV & Application Sift
• Initial Interview
• Assessment Centre
• Final Interview with our Senior Management Team

• Specify their top 3 functional areas of interest

Ability to demonstrate our core values:

• Respect
• Accountability
• Passion
• Flexibility
• Hard work
• Honesty

Programme Outline

The development programme will vary dependent on the vocational qualification identified

Months 1-3: Departmental placement - Get to know the team and areas of interest/strengths

Months 3 onwards: Commence Vocational qualification

Apprentices joining the programme will be offered an initial apprenticeship contract which will last the duration of the vocational qualifications required

As well as undertaking an apprenticeship, you will also have the opportunity to:

• Develop your knowledge and key skills on a day to day basis
• Understand the key procedures and processes of your function
• Identify and attend development courses

Supported Employment

Inspire

DPD delivers inclusion through the ‘Inspire’ programme by providing Work Experience, Supported Internships, Inclusive Apprenticeships, and Employment for people with learning difficulties and disabilities. Working with government, local schools, colleges, and charities to Inspire a new way of thinking and proactively provide opportunities for all.

As a Disability Confident Employer and a Valuable 500 committed company, DPD looks to create further opportunities ensuring every area of the business is included in this part of our inclusion strategy:

“Our vision is to have at least one disabled person, including those with learning difficulties and special needs, working in each area of the business with the goal of offering them full-time employment, in a meaningful role that adds value to the individual, DPD and society as a whole through structured Work Experience, Internship and Apprenticeship opportunities.”

Supported Internships

At DPD we have acted as a host employer for young people with SEND on Supported Internships since 2018.

Supported Internships are a structured study programme that enable young people with an Education, Health and Care plan to achieve sustainable paid employment.

We partner with local schools, colleges and local authorities to offer placements throughout the business to equip young people with the skills they need for work, through learning in the workplace.

Inclusive Apprenticeship

Inclusive apprenticeships have been designed for individuals who have a recognised learning difficulty and/or disability and have a Health and Care (EHC) Plan.

Our Supported Employment team works with the Apprentice, their manager and a provider to ensure that all the appropriate reasonable adjustments are made to ensure the Apprentice can have a successful start to their career with DPD.

Testimonials

Callam Bassett (Inclusive Apprentice)

When I first started my apprenticeship with DPD, I was a bit worried about the transition from student to a full time worker. I soon found out that I had no reason to worry at all, the staff are so friendly and helpful. I did need some extra support with the change of routine but DPD appointed someone to help me with that. I'm really happy at work and I'm looking forward to my future career with DPD.

 

Liam Iddles (Engineering Team Leader)

In 2011 I applied for a role as a Marketing Apprentice but DPD saw a different career path for me and offered me the position of Engineering Apprentice which I gratefully accepted. I studied for four years at Birmingham Metropolitan College and learnt all the skills necessary for a successful career. Ten years later, I am now an Engineering Team Leader and enjoy working continental shift patterns as it allows me to spend time with my family whilst still having time for my hobbies and interests. I'm also able to support our new Apprentices, which is fantastic. Wow, where has the time gone!

 

Simran Thiara (International Operations Coordinator)

DPD invest a lot of time and effort into your development, growth and experience. The company are eager to develop themselves, therefore you are growing as a unit and not an individual.The International Operations Department are confident to let young minds shape the future for the company which makes me feel very valued. Age is just a number in this company and you do not get treated any different. I have been through quite a journey since I started working at DPD at the age of 18. Myself and those around me have seen a massive change in my confidence, professionalism and the perception I give to others. The opportunities that have shaped these qualities are something I am very thankful for.

 

Jay Lal (L&D Content Developer)

My journey with DPD began in 2015, when at just 16 years old I was offered my first job as a Sales Admin Apprentice. I then took the opportunity to move to CCS and completed my second qualification, Level 3 Junior Content Producer. Last year I moved to the People & Talent team, and still use the skills I have learnt in my current role. I am proud to share my experience to support new Apprentices as they start their exciting journeys with DPD.

 

Dan Stone (Shift Manager at Liverpool Depot)

I've enjoyed every minute of my first year with DPD. I love the challenging and fast paced environment, I have a superb team of drivers and its great to have a leadership position with this much responsibility so soon after leaving university.