About The Co-operative Group
The Co-operative Group has core interests in food, financial services, travel, pharmacy, funerals and farms. It stands apart from other major retailers in the UK as a business that is owned, not by a small group of shareholders, but by more than five million consumers. Following its acquisition of the Somerfield supermarket chain in March 2009 The Co-operative Food is the UK’s fifth largest food retailer. The Co-operative Financial Services (CFS) is one of the largest and most diversified financial mutual businesses. It is the UK’s number one provider of funeral services, the third-largest retail pharmacy chain, a leading travel retailer, and is the UK’s largest farmer.
“I’m constantly working with different people; it could be food one day, travel the next”
“I started on the graduate scheme in September 2008, but actually moved off the scheme six months before the end to go straight into a permanent role. I absolutely loved it in direct marketing – it gets your creative juices flowing.
“I’m constantly working with different people; it could be food one day, travel the next. The business is in an exciting time.
“From day one on the graduate scheme you’re working on projects that you will have to present to 50 of the top managers across the group. It is absolutely amazing the challenges you’re handed and the opportunities you’re given.”
Grace Holland, direct marketing support manager