Here are some questions that people wishing to join Debenhams often ask us. We hope that these will help you in your application to join our business.
Application questions
Q:Who can I contact if I have a problem or question about my application?
If you are applying for a store-based role you can contact our Retail Resourcing team either by email at jobs@debenhams.com or by calling us on 08445 616162, selecting option 1, then option 1 again.
If you have any general queries relating to Head Office vacancies please email us at headoffice.resourcing@debenhams.com
Q:If I have problems with my online application can I apply in another way?
For Store-based roles we also encourage candidates to apply online. If you have problems with your application we may be able to take your application over the phone by calling our Retail Resourcing team on 08445 616162.
For Head Office roles, all applications should be made online. If you do have any problems with your application please call 0845 2689191 and press option 2.
Q:Can I apply for more than one job?
Yes you can. However please think about the most appropriate role that matches your skills and experience. Only apply for suitable roles.
Q:Will I be notified on receipt of my application?
Yes, you will receive a confirmation email that we have received your application.
Q:Can I apply if I don’t have a work permit?
No, unfortunately we are unable to accept applications from candidates who do not have a valid work permit or visa.
Q:What can I expect from an interview?
The interview process depends on the job role that you have applied for. The process is likely to involve an initial telephone interview and then a face-to-face interview at the next stage. Some of our roles involve a second interview stage, practical exercises or attending an assessment centre. The interview process will be discussed with you in advance if you are progressed to this stage.
Q:How should I prepare for my interview?
If you are shortlisted for interview it’s important that you prepare fully in order to give the best impression possible. The following suggestions can be used as a guide:
Read the job description so that you fully understand the role that you are applying for.
Think about your work experience and examples of how your experience is relevant to the role.
Do your research about Debenhams by visiting our website, visiting your local store and talking to any current employees.
And remember to bring along your passport or birth certificate as evidence of your eligibility to work in the UK.
Q:Will I get feedback after my interview?
We will inform you of the outcome of your interview or assessment centre within ten days. We also give all applicants the option to request specific feedback on their performance at the interview.
Working for Debenhams PLC
Q:Will I have to wear a uniform?
For Store-based roles you may be required to wear a uniform. This will depend on your job role. If required, Debenhams will provide you with an appropriate uniform to ensure that you can project a professional image of the company and also enable customers to easily identify that you work for Debenhams.
In Head Office the dress code is business wear.
Q:What training will I receive if I join Debenhams?
Your training will depend on the role that you apply for. Usually it will combine a hands on approach with technical classroom-based training sessions. Whatever your role you will always be given a thorough training as part of your induction.
Location
Q:Where is your Head Office based?
We have two main Head Office locations. We have offices in the West End of London just off Oxford Street. Our Buying, Merchandising, Design and Quality Assurance functions are based here along with most of the Support functions of our business
We also have a smaller Head Office location in Taunton, Somerset. Our Customer Contact Centre and Print function are based here along with parts of our Information Systems, HR, Retail Resourcing and Finance teams.
Q:I’ve heard that there is a new store opening close to my home, how can I apply for a role here?
All applications for new stores are online and will be advertised on our website. We usually advertise in the local press when we are starting our recruitment campaign. This is usually about five months prior to the Store opening.
Q:I know that Debenhams has a number of overseas Stores; do you have any vacancies overseas?
We have many International Stores around the world. Local franchise partners operate these Stores. They recruit in their local market and their staff are employed by them, not Debenhams.
We do have an International Division in Head Office that liaises closely with our franchise partners. Many of these roles involve international travel. Any vacancies in this team will be advertised under Head Office opportunities.
Christmas temps
Q:When do you begin recruiting for Christmas staff in your stores?
We start recruiting for our Christmas staff from August onwards. Most of our temporary Christmas opportunities are filled by the beginning of November each year.
Work experience and Business placements
Q:Do you offer work experience in your Head Office or Stores?
If you are looking to gain retail experience whilst studying we offer the following opportunities:
In Head Office we have a business placement programme each year that is open to university students who wish to work during the 3rd year of their degree course. We offer up to 45 placements a year in Head Office across Buying, Merchandising, Marketing and various Support functions. This is a year’s placement starting in July. It is only for students taking a sandwich degree course and a year out in industry.
Our Retail Resourcing team is unable to arrange any unpaid work experience in our stores. Work experience in stores is at the discretion of the Store Manager. You will need to put any requests in writing to the Store Manager.
Q:Do you offer summer internships?
We do not offer a summer internship programme in Head Office. Some students decide to take up temporary positions throughout the summer in their local Stores in order to gain some hands on experience.