What is Site Research?

Site Research is based in the Welwyn Garden City Head Office and is a core department within the Property area of Tesco. It is about understanding and analysing catchments and customers to make sure we open the right stores in the right locations. Join us and you will enjoy contact with a wide range of our business areas and you will be instrumental in developing store strategies that help us to remain a market leader.

What will I be doing?

We study sites up and down the country to find the best locations for our stores from Express up to Extra size. One week you could be in the north-east forecasting sales for a new store. The next you will be in the south-west analysing the performance of recent store openings and looking for trends in store performance. Most importantly, you will have to think on your feet and have the character to present your findings up to Senior Management level, influencing decisions and making recommendations.

Training and support throughout the graduate programme is very comprehensive. You will have a mentor to guide you through the whole induction process and to answer any questions you may have from relocating after University to help with a sales forecast. There is also continuous support from your manager, colleagues and personnel department.

The graduate programme is 18 months and you will gain exposure to the Express/Metro and Superstore/Extra Site Research teams. There will also be a placement in one of our stores where you will get a real insight into how your decisions may affect our business.

Where could it take me?

Once you are a bit more experienced (5+ years), there are opportunities to work abroad assessing a potential acquisition or even heading up a local Site Research team.

Many previous Site Research graduates have gone on to work for the Tesco global business, including in Asia, America and Ireland. There are also fantastic opportunities here in the UK with previous Site Research graduates now being Directors of departments across Tesco.

What skills do I need?

For a role in Site Research, you will need:

• At least a 2:1 degree in any discipline (achieved or expected). Geography degrees are especially relevant, however not essential. Candidates with an interest in spatial awareness and the retail market are encouraged
• A flair for qualitative and quantitative research
• The ability to communicate complex information and influence people at all levels
• The willing to travel around the UK on a weekly basis
• International mobility
• A full driving licence is essential for Site Research