A Bradford motors group is planning to recruit more graduate sales trainees this year after the success of its first intake.

JCT600 took on its first six graduates in October as part of the group’s new sales executive recruitment and training programme.

Since October, the graduates have undergone rigorous training in the motor industry and customer service, and are going into some of JCT600’s showrooms in Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire.

Andy Coulthurst, group sales director, said: “Traditionally, sales executives new to the industry undergo comprehensive training, but on returning to the dealership are expected to handle face-to-face enquiries straight away.

“In order to attract and nurture the brightest young talent, we felt that we should invest in our graduates by providing a dedicated six-month training programme and rewarding them with a salary-only package during their training, so removing the pressure to sell while they are learning all aspects of the profession.

“We see the programme as a long-term investment with the primary aim of immersing our graduates in the principles of good practice, with a particular focus on providing outstanding customer service.”

JCT600 has its head office at Apperley Bridge.