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Sales Associate testimonials
Testimonials from current Sales Associates
Daniel
Daniel graduated from Cardiff University in 2007 with an honours degree in Business Economics
Having gone through a rigorous assessment process, it was clear from the out start that this programme and the success of the people on it, means a lot to Computacenter. My 5 months to date have further cemented this belief due to the quality of training provided, interaction & visibility with key stakeholders in the business, along with the responsibility assigned to you from day one. This programme does not let you achieve mediocrity; instead it allows you to push the boundaries within the company to fully exploit the 18 month during your time on the programme.
Having worked for a fund investment company prior to joining Computacenter for a number of years, I was aware that opportunities are often oversold. Turning up for my first day in November my expectations were high; from the assessment process and having spoken to previous Sales Associates. I can honestly say that these expectations have been surpassed. The interaction with Client Directors, experienced sales professionals from the start is an example of how this programme fully delivers on everything it promises.
Best Day: Sales Kick-off - Having met a lot of people around the business who referenced this date at the beginning of February, it was an experience I was especially looking forward to. For me there was no better motivator than on Saturday night, when the top sales professionals were recognised in front of their peers for successes achieved throughout the year.
Worst Day: During one of my early rotations, I struggled in understanding what was exactly required in terms of a deliverable surrounding a project I had been given. After going back and re-qualifying the specifics, it became clear as to what was expected, allowing me to be successful.
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
A fully encompassing elite sales programme that informs, educates and empowers those on it to achieve better things.
Jennifer
Jennifer graduated from the University of Bath in 2008 with a BSc honours degree in Physics.
Throughout the programme you are given the opportunity to rotate around the business engaging with a wealth of successful and dynamic people. It is a fast-track and unique experience enabling you to see Computacenter from all angles to truly understand the business quickly. The support and advice that is given at every stage of our development is incredible.
There is a fantastic opportunity to work within teams on the programme. Teamwork is an important attribute for anyone wanting to be successful as an Account Manager. We have the opportunity to work in our SA teams on a rotational basis so you not only get to know the other SA’s on a professional level but also become good friends over the period.
The programme is highly structured so you benefit from knowing what you’re current role is and what you will be moving onto next. This is great for the more organised type so you can plan your time and get the most out of each rotation.
We are encouraged to be proactive. The more you put into this opportunity the more you get out of it. It has been clear from the start that there are no limits to your success within Computacenter. This programme gives you an elevated platform from which to shine and prove your abilities. Your commitment and hard work will get noticed and these achievements motivate you to strive for excellence.
The programme has very much delivered on what it promised, and beyond. I would say the only aspect of the programme information that wasn’t quite highlighted enough was the huge amount of support that we would be given at every stage of our development. If we are ever feeling overwhelmed or unsure as to how to handle a situation, there are supportive people offering their advice and expertise to ensure we head in the right direction and learn from our experiences.
Best Day: To have to narrow down a ‘best day’ is difficult for me because I have had so many so far! Most of my best days are those spent working alongside my Client Director. A specific example of this was when I went to a customer meeting in Hatfield with an Account Manger and my Client Director. It was incredible to watch and learn such a passionate team proposition our capabilities to our customers.
Worst day: The worst day so far would have to be whilst in my Software rotation. I felt completely overwhelmed with a task I had been asked to complete as I didn’t quite understand what was required. Once I had qualified and asked for help everyone was so supportive and stopped what they were doing to assist me. Even though this role pushed me from my comfort zone I learnt a great deal in this rotation, not only Computacenter’s software propositions but also the importance of qualifying if you’re unsure.
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
The Sales Associate programme nurtures your talent and enables you, alongside inspiring individuals, to focus your energy and passion for success to achieve excellence.
James
James graduated from Loughborough University in 2007 with a 2:1 Bsc Honours in Retail and Business Management
The current programme never fails to deliver with every day giving you a different challenge, constantly developing your skills across the business. I have had real responsibility to lead projects and present findings. This is what I enjoy most; a real opportunity to add value back to the business. Whilst learning from gaining exposure through the mentorship of my Client Director, the chance to work on large public sector bids and visit key clients. I feel empowered at Computacenter as it is a meritocratic organisation where you control your personal development and you have the chance to make a real impact with access to key resources.
I met and spoke to a current Sales Associate about the role prior to starting at Computacenter, gaining a personal insight to the programme and so far it has delivered at every stage. The 18th month programme has included comprehensive sales training, exposure to key parts of the business, with the chance to plan my personal development. What really stands out though is the constant opportunity to engage with senior executives and learn from the best. What more could you want than a chance present to the CEO, Mike Norris. I am constantly reminded of why I didn’t think twice about taking the role.
Best Day: definitely the Sales Kick Off! You get to truly discover what the Computacenter culture is all about. You get to see the ultimate reward for working hard and celebrating the successes of Computacenter.
Worst Day: working very late to complete a group presentation, however the feeling after delivering the presentation and finding out the positive marks we received were definitely worth the extra effort!
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
An amazing opportunity to learn, develop and finely hone your skills to become an elite sales professional.
Lucy
Lucy graduated from the University of Manchester in 2009 with a BA (hons) Degree in Geography, where she specialised in Human Geography and Economics.
Becoming a Sales Associate is a launch pad for a fantastic and successful career. If you are committed, driven and looking for a unique opportunity to excel and fulfil all your ambitions, the Sales Associate programme is one of a kind. This is driven by real opportunities and experience around the business that provides you with the chance to network and ‘add value’ from your first day. I cannot believe the opportunity I have been given and the wonderful prospects that are available to me. All the people you meet throughout the company are truly inspirational and really exemplify the exceptional ethos throughout the business.
Compared to other schemes of its kind, the Sales Associates programme is miles ahead in so many ways. However, on a more personal level, I feel the amount I have already developed has exceeded all expectations. This is especially due to the extremely valuable exposure and opportunities you have around the business from day one. In particular, the valuable and motivating mentorship I have received from my experienced Client Director has been priceless. I have already had a lot of exposure to customer meetings through working with my Client Director – and for me this is where the real value of the programme lies. I would have never expected to have grown and learnt so much on a programme like this, and I really feel it will make me into the ‘Elite Sales’ person that it pledges. Most of all Computacenter does what it promises and values its people. You can therefore be assured that the programme will deliver and exceed all the expectations it builds.
Best Day: spending time with my Client Director as it allows you to oversee how a ‘Elite Sales’ person works and learn key approaches to selling and dealing with customer’s needs on a one to one basis. You are learning from the best so you can eventually become the best. Also, I have felt real achievement when comparing my performance throughout the programme to see how much I have developed and bettered my last performance. This is always a ‘best day’ when you can really see how far you have come and why I love being part of the Sales Associate programme.
Worst Day: when you have to work right up to the last minute for a dead line as a group and feel you will never get there. However, when you successfully achieve your desired results on time, you feel real achievement together and can reflect back on the work to learn how you could be more efficient next time.
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
A once in a lifetime opportunity that opens doors to an exceptional career that is limitless which you will become completely committed to and passionate about.
Matt
Matt graduated from Durham University with a 2:1 in Law
Having worked in sales prior to arriving at Computacenter, in roles where I mainly had to learn on the job, it has been fantastic to be a part of a process that is focused on investing so much in you. From our Programme manager to the specially tailored sales training programme we complete, we are given all the tools we need to succeed. Making it happen however is down to us! Importantly the flexibility built into the programme has allowed me input into my development as well. It’s been a hugely refreshing change to be able to talk to people who really want to work with you on this front. For me the programme comes into its own through the level of support we receive from the one on one mentoring relationships we have – relationships with people devoted to helping you achieve success. This has enriched the experience and has given me a very strong platform within Computacenter from which to achieve my goals.
My expectations of the programme have been met – everyone’s openness from the start about what the programme entailed set the tone for the integrity of CC people. And through the investment into your development, the enabling environment within CC and the thoroughness and breadth of the formal training you complete my expectations have also been exceeded.
Best day: being asked to help put a bid together for a large financial prospect. Being included in a bid that involved our international capabilities and senior management was a real buzz.
Worst day: a few very nervous minutes when I was worried that a small part of a contract I was tasked to deliver for a major financial customer might disrupt the delivery of the overall project. In the end however I managed to deliver what I needed to successfully and the contract went live without incident!
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
The programme is high profile internally, varied and demanding with perhaps the best thing about it being having the support and camaraderie of my other colleagues all on the programme with me. My advice: go for it!
Laura
Laura graduated from the Bournemouth University with a 2.1 BA (hons) Degree in Business Studies
Be prepared to hit the ground running, Computacenter is a dynamic and fast paced organisation! The Sales Associate Scheme has provided me with what I feel is the best possible start to my career. Challenging and exciting from the outset, I’ve found myself pushed right out of my comfort zone and have enjoyed every second of it! It is here that I’ve had the opportunity to truly grow and develop; often delivering with abilities I wasn’t even aware I had.
Being immersed in a culture full of inspiring individuals, together with immense levels of support; including that of my Client Director who is a fantastic mentor, and our Team Lead who constantly strives for the best in us, make for an invigorating and enjoyable environment to work within. Not only have I had the chance to develop networks across the business, I have also fostered some wonderful friendships.
The Sales Associate scheme has far surpassed my expectations, although it should be noted you will achieve in proportion with what you choose to invest. The programme itself is challenging, however it’s what you endeavour to do beyond the basics that really make you stand out.
Best day: easily the Sales Kick Off, watching how the entire sales force operates really cemented for me why I want to be here.
Worst day: my first day, I felt absolutely out of my depth – I’d go as far as to say panic stricken! There was so much to take in and absorb I thought I’d never remember it all, however, after the initial nerves subsided I realised I’d taken on board far more than I’d realised, sometimes a little bit of adrenaline is a good thing!
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
Computacenter is an organisation that prides itself on its ability to assist customers in achieving their goals. This is also true of its approach to the workforce and the Sales Associate scheme; Computacenter passionately invests in its people to accomplish anything they choose aim for.
Chris
Chris graduated in June 2007 from Cardiff University with a BA (Hons) in Ancient History.
Computacenter is an entrepreneurial organisation where the correct drive and focus are key requirements to fit into this vibrant and progressive company. The opportunities for a Sales Associate are excellent and with the correct attitude and application you can develop a successful career in sales.
Aside from the training and development on the structured programme, you also get a lot of on the job training by getting out to meetings with your aligned Client Director and going to many different customer and vendor sites. What is great about the programme is that the scheme is there to support and develop you, but you make the role your own and are supported every step of the way.
The programme has surpassed my expectations as I did not initially know much about Computacenter or their scheme. Throughout the programme there has been a huge amount of investment in our future and the level of support and exposure we have received across the business has been equally fantastic; and is probably what sets the scheme apart from many others.
Best Day: being told I earned the most commission in our first rotation.
Worst Day: being marked down in the same rotation for being too competitive!
One sentence that sums the programme up for you:
Having gone through the arduous process of looking for a programme that would invest in me, provide the opportunity to build a career and work in a fun and friendly environment; I feel confident in saying that the Computacenter Sales Associate Programme ticks all the boxes.
Testimonials from past Sales Associates
Connie
Connie Graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2008 with an honours degree in Accountancy..
"Computacenter is an innovative and continually evolving company; the sales associate programme very much reflects this. The assessment day gives a great insight into the Computacenter culture as well as how challenging the programme will be. The prospects we were presented with seemed too good to be true however, 8 months later I continue to be astounded by the opportunities open to us. I feel very fortunate to have been chosen for a role where I have so much control over my own success. Commitment, focus and enthusiasm are key to this. The support we have internally, at all levels of the company, means that there are no limits to what you can achieve. I have made many friends in Computacenter, particularly amongst the other associates and my home branch who never fail to brighten up even a difficult day. It is inspiring to be around so many hard working and passionate individuals and the programme gives the platform to build a network which would take years within any organisation.
My advice if you are considering applying is that while the programme is very rewarding it is a big commitment which is not to be taken lightly. It is hard work but the best decision I have ever made, the sense of achievement is addictive!"
Best day: "Presenting my idea on how the business could improve to the CEO is a clear highlight. My nerves disappeared and I enjoyed every moment of it. The self confidence I gained from this made all the preparation worthwhile. We had dinner with Mike that evening which was a great way to end the day."
Worst day: "A long day of data analysis for a project. It thought it was never going to end. However, the results were the basis of a successful project so definitely worth the headache"
Matthew
Matt, a big Newcastle United fan, graduated from Manchester University with an Honours degree in Media.
"The Sales Associate Programme has been a challenge from the start where I’ve constantly been taken out of my comfort zone. What make this a great programme is the support and guidance from some of our best people in the business who you can learn a great deal from and will assist you every step of the way. You’re in charge of your development and left to manage you own time, driving what you want to get out of every rotation and meeting, getting the knowledge to help you become a great Account Manager in the future. There is no doubt that this grad programme is a fantastic opportunity but it’s also very hard work, if you’re willing to put in the hard work the rewards are high"
Best day: "The sales kick off. 2 days of learning a great deal combined with a lot of fun. By the Sunday you’re exhausted but raring to go for the Monday and put into practice all you learned"
Worst day: "Dealing with the nerves right before the presentation to Mike. This day was only half bad as after the presentation, it felt great"
Rob
An adventurous personality, sport enthusiast, rugby player and coach, Rob graduated from Loughborough University in 2005 with an Honours degree in Psychology.
“The SA program is quite simply a fantastic and unique platform to realise your full potential.
The intrinsic reward I’ve felt from coming into work with such fun, dynamic and charismatic colleagues, and feeling your competencies grow on a daily basis is unparalleled in any other graduate scheme. The program really pushes you, but it’s not the Apprentice. If selected you’ve been identified as having huge potential and for that reason you get great support throughout the business to help you reach it.
Over the 18 month program Computacenter have really invested in us, from professional sales qualifications to individual mentoring from the most successful sales people in the organisation. Ultimately though you have to invest in yourself, and make the experience your own. I’ve made some great friends, learnt so much about myself and the business in such a short space of time - It’s without doubt still the best decision I have ever made.”
Best day: "The Sales Kick-Off, a non-stop Saturday of education and celebration of achievement, an amazing experience and fantastic fun, right up until 8am on Sunday!"
Worst day: "Preparing for Monday’s presentation on that Sunday!"
Adanna
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Adanna holds the title of Young Entrepreneur 2007, after winning an apprentice style competition. Adanna graduated from Kingston University with an honours degree in Geographical Information Systems and Business Management.
"I worked for the company for a year before being selected for the program. Computacenter identified my talent and is assisting to nurture that talent by laying the foundation for growth and development. The Sales Associate program is excellent in terms of pushing you to limits you didn’t necessarily knew you processed, and this is evident from day one. The strong team culture is one where everyone joins together striving for excellence and success. The program allows you to gain a solid understanding of the company’s capabilities. I feel honoured to be on a structured grad scheme that is providing me with the tools to develop new skills through experience based learning opportunities. I see a bright future ahead and I am excited about my career path."
Best day: "Definitely presenting to the Mike Norris, CEO of the company on a proposed idea that would add value to a strategic project around learning and development of the sales force."
Worst day: "Each day holds different challenges such writing ISMM reports on change management to working on projects pulling together bid collateral. Through every challenging situation, I learn, I develop, and I grow. If I were to choose a worst day, it would probably be the day before my presentation to Mike Norris."
Sergio
An avid sports man and former boxing champion, Sergio graduated from The University of Wales, Bangor with a degree in Business with Spanish.
"The interview process for me was fantastic; it challenged and pushed me to new levels. This made it all the more rewarding when the phone call came from the CEO to inform me I had been offered a position on The Sales Associate Programme.
I am now 8 months into the programme and I still genuinely feel privileged to be on what I consider the best graduate job in the UK. Working for Computacenter has exceeded all of my initial and extremely high expectations, and it still challenges and continues to push me even further.
There is a lot to take in through the course of the programme, and it is clear that you are expected to go above and beyond the norm. You need to put yourself outside of your comfort zone and to not only accept and embrace new challenges, but to proactively seek out and explore any potential new opportunities."
Best day: "Having the opportunity to get involved with a pitch to Computacenter’s largest prospect account, just 6 months into the programme at our head offices in Hatfield with the senior executive team present."
Worst day: "This would have to be the first day of one of my earlier project rotations , I was completely overwhelmed with complicated information that I just did not understand. I remember panicking and worrying that I would never get my head around it. For the duration of the project I persevered and with a lot of hard work and determination I actually delivered one of my best presentations during my time so far at Computacenter"
Miriam
Miriam graduated from Cardiff University with a First Class Honours in Psychology.
“Computacenter’s Sales Associate Programme has exceeded all my expectations. The investment from within the business is fantastic and provides an internal network which would usually take years to build. The programme is a constant challenge, meaning that I can really push myself and develop all the time.
Outside my role as an Account Manager I have been asked to be involved in the Group Strategy for two years running. At present I am working with the UK, France and Germany to devise our European Strategy for the next three years, which will be delivered to the Board later this year. This has been an excellent opportunity, where I have been working with some of the top performers in Computacenter. Most of all, it has helped me understand the breadth of our services and how we can leverage our pan-European strength to deliver the maximum benefit to our customers ”
Best day: "The 6 month presentation to the CEO, Mike Norris, in which we communicated our personal recommendation for change in the company. Although very daunting, it was the most rewarding experience so far."
Worst day: "Organising a large bid for one of our top financial customers, which was very challenging. However, once it was submitted I realised just how much I had learnt and enjoyed the cross-business collaboration. I later found out that we had won the bid which was incredibly satisfying."
James
A keen musician and sports fan, James graduated from the University of Nottingham with an Honours degree in Electronic Engineering & Communications.
"The Sales Associate program offers a fresh approach to sales education. It allows you to cut your own path through the company and benefit from the wealth of experience and knowledge that surrounds you.
Advice comes from all corners, and non more potent that that of the CEO, Mike Norris, whose interaction with the program is driven through his personal desire to ensure your development is a success."
Best day: "Two great results within 24hrs: Winning the best group award for the Cisco presentation, and finding out the next morning that I had received a distinction for my ISMM diploma. It just shows what you can achieve when you put the work in."
Worst day: "The night before a presentation to our HP team in January. Although individually we had done a lot of work, the group had not worked well together, and ended up staying late in the London office only to achieve nothing. The presentation went quite well, but it could have been a lot better."
Ed
An avid motorsport fan with more than a passing interest in music, Ed graduated from the University of Southampton with a degree in Politics.
“A challenging and thought-provoking assessment day gave a brief insight into the Sales Associate Programme and the potential for development within Computacenter. Eight months in, the support and interest in our development throughout the company, ranging from Mike Norris to the customer units and beyond, continues to astound me.
“The Sales Associate Programme offers the potential to develop as quickly as you are able to. The day you say that you know everything you need to fulfil your role successfully is the day you’ve not looked hard enough for something new! IT is constantly developing, as are the offerings of Computacenter. You can’t rest on your laurels, but often have to proactively manage your own development to give you the most relevant and useful skills and support network to progress as an Account Manager. This programme gives you the ideal opportunity to excel in an invigorating sales environment, enjoying the exposure and responsibility that just isn’t available in other such schemes. “The first six months gave me a chance to really get to know the company, what we do and how we do it. This has allowed me to get a really good handle on whom to turn for support and guidance in different aspects of the business, in order to build the ideal support network and knowledge base. We have recently been given more exposure to clients, giving us the chance to learn directly from our mentors. I’ve been given the opportunity to work with EDS and their interests within defence, allowing me to continually learn in an invigorating and challenging atmosphere.”
Best day: "The Sales Kick-Off"
Dan - Account Manager
"I joined Computacenter 12 months ago and it has been a fantastic journey so far. My background prior to joining was Marketing so not exactly technical!
During the last year I have been fortunate enough to spend four months on the Sales Associate Program. The program was pivotal in providing me with the; skill set, networks, support and opportunity to now run one of Computacenter's large City accounts.
My advice to you when considering the Sales Associate Program is to think carefully before applying.
This is an opportunity that will require real focus and commitment. If you are clear about what you want to achieve from joining Computacenter and this fast track program then your commitment will be rewarded by experiencing a true meritocracy, a place to build a long term career, substantial financial rewards and the chance to work with some real high calibre people."
John - Client Director
John graduated with a degree in Mathematics from Loughborough University in 1995. He joined Computacenter in the same year on the inaugural graduate account management scheme. Initially based in the Bristol office John managed a number of accounts in the South West of England.
In 2000 he became one of the youngest recipients of the FMES jacket awarded for exceptional sales achievement and in 2006 he was Computacenter's top national Account Manager. He was subsequently promoted to the role of Client Director in 2007 with responsibility for a number of Computacenter's largest financial services accounts. John is married, has a 9 month old son and has an interest in all sports but has a particular passion for cricket.
