Shoal Group was founded in late 2019 through the coming together of Cablecraft and FS Cables, with a shared vision of creating a platform for long-term, sustainable growth. We expanded further in 2021 with the acquisition of SWA, and today, we’re proud to be part of Diploma PLC — a FTSE 100-listed company with a global presence in Life Sciences, Seals, and Controls industries. Our headquarters are in Luton, Bedfordshire, with a sales office in Gloucestershire and a manufacturing facility in Plymouth, Devon. Across the organisation we have a vision of becoming a leading distributor of cables and cable accessories in the electrical industry; delivering value across multiple channels, including wholesale, contractors, and OEMs. We aim to serve a diverse industry across Europe and grow the business through both organic and inorganic growth strategies. We combine the agility, energy, and flexibility of an SME with the financial strength and resources of being part of Diploma PLC. This allows us to make significant investments and pursue strategic acquisitions to further enhance our offerings and expand our reach.
Job Summary
This is a full-time on-site role for an Import & Export Freight Apprentice. The main duties for the apprentice will include, but not limited to:
- Liaise with suppliers, transport providers, and internal departments (Sales, Procurement, Customer Service) to ensure orders are processed and delivered on time.
- Generate and issue invoices to international customers once orders have been picked and packed.
- Monitor and chase freight forwarders for accurate inbound shipping dates.
- Troubleshoot import and export shipments i.e. paperwork issues / missing goods.
- Coordinate with transport providers to obtain shipping labels and confirm collection arrangements.
- Ensure that any specific documents required by a destination country are available at time of shipment. (e.g. Certificate of Origin, Carnet).
- Support export order preparation to ensure products are packed and documented to the required standard, both in terms of the contract and in accordance with international aviation/shipping security rules and regulations.
- Submit customs declarations and/or provide clearance instructions to third-party customs broker when needed.
- Negotiate preferential freight rates with suppliers.
- Review supplier shipping documentation to track incoming deliveries and support booking-in process and monitor expected deliveries.
- Support day-to-day operations across key departments, including picking, goods in, dispatch, production areas.
- Assist in processing customer orders accurately and efficiently to meet On-Time Dispatch (OTD) targets.
- Assist in managing stock levels and help maintain accurate inventory records.
- Learn and operate warehouse systems (WMS / RF scanners) to manage stock and order flow.
- Build effective working relationships with colleagues and suppliers.
- Work closely with team managers to understand workload planning, prioritisation, and daily operational targets.
- Support continuous improvement activities within the warehouse environment.
- Adhere to all health and safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate protective equipment and following safe working practices.
- Be aware of hazards within the warehouse and proactively identify and report any risks.
- Support the promotion of a safe, clean, and organised working environment.
(Please note, due to the nature of the business and tasks required candidates must be over 18).
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Structured apprenticeship programme (Level 3 in International Freight Forwarding – Sea route).
- Exposure to warehouse systems (including autonomous robotics), KPIs, and operational performance management.
- Understanding and experience of import / export regulations and processes.
- Mentoring from experienced operational leaders.
- Development of leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Opportunity to progress into a permanent operational or supervisory role based on performance.
Role requirements - Competencies
- Self-motivated with a proactive approach to work.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Highly motivated individual.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work well in a team.
- Proficiency in relevant computer software.
Role requirements - Qualifications
- GCSE or equivalent Math and English (Grade C (4) or above).
Role requirements - Desirable
- Interest in logistics, international trade, or business administration.
- Previous work experience within an office, retail, customer service, administration, warehouse environment.
- Driving Licence
Workplace Benefits:
- Life Assurance (x3 basic salary)
- Medicash Cash Back Scheme
- Paid Volunteering Days
- Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme - 3% Employer Contributions
- Additional Day of Holiday for Your Birthday
- Discretionary Bonus
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme and Onsite Wellness Room
Work schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- 08:30am until 5pm
Holidays:
Role location:
- Office based - candidates are to be within a 30-45 minute commute of the Luton office.
- The apprentice will also spend one day a month working with World Cargo Logistics for elements of the apprenticeship standard.
Please note: This role is an Apprenticeship. Non-UK nationals must provide evidence of having resided in the UK for at least three years and ensure their visa covers the entire duration of the Apprenticeship.
As this is a Level 3 Apprenticeship, candidates aged under 19 are required to have achieved a grade 4 (C) or above in Maths and English. If the successful applicant does not meet these grade requirements, additional training in these subjects will be provided as part of the Apprenticeship.
Job Type: Apprenticeship
Pay: £18,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Please confirm your GCSE grade in Maths
- Please confirm your GCSE grade in English
- Do you hold a UK driving licence?
- Your current address and postcode.
Work Location: In person
