When Haidee Barr joined JTI’s Graduate Scheme, she wanted more than a first job – she wanted pace, responsibility and a company that would invest in her growth. Two years later, she is working across National Key Accounts, applying field-won insight to commercial decisions. “It wasn’t about watching from the sidelines,” she says. “From day one, it was about learning by doing.”
Learning at pace, moving at speed
Haidee’s sales-focused scheme was structured around three six-month projects. The first half-year was an immersion across functions – corporate affairs, marketing, field sales and time in store with JTI’s field force. Then came the projects; Devon and Cornwall to map seasonal and holiday-site opportunities; the North East and Scotland for activation “blitzes” with reduced-risk products; and a final stint in National Accounts. "Each rotation felt like a new adventure,” she says. “You’re trusted with responsibility early on, but you’re also supported by colleagues who genuinely want you to succeed.”
Field to mission control
The final project, reviewing investment in national key accounts, marked a shift from people-heavy field work to commercial analysis. “It was a different muscle,” Haidee says. “Less time on the road, more time connecting real-world store insight to numbers.” That step made the move into a permanent role seamless, “I kept the same mentors and managers, so development didn’t stop when the scheme ended – it accelerated.”
Visibility, ownership and a small cohort
JTI’s Graduate Scheme is intentionally small. “There were three of us in my intake,” Haidee says. “You don’t fade into the background; your experience is personal.” From presenting in her first week to speaking at the East of England Co-op’s Managers Conference, visibility is encouraged. “People actively pull you into meetings you’ve not seen before so you can learn.”
Culture that sticks
Support went beyond the job. Twice Haidee relocated, first to Devon and later to Newcastle. “Managers were conscious I didn’t know anyone locally,” she says. “They checked in on the wellbeing side as much as the work.” Mentors remain in place after the scheme ends, “We still speak regularly. You always know who to call.”
JTI’s investment in its people is matched by a belief in the value of diverse experience. Teams span a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines, united by a shared drive for excellence and innovation. For graduates and apprentices, that means joining an environment that values fresh perspectives and encourages individual growth. “JTI gives you room to find your own path,” Haidee says. “They don’t expect everyone to fit one mould – they want you to bring your personality to your work. That’s empowering, especially early in your career.”
Advice for applicants
“Say yes to everything,” Haidee advises. “Moves, projects, presentations – if you’re willing, JTI will hand you opportunities. The scheme gives you autonomy with a safety net.” For graduates who want real responsibility, retail reality and commercial stretch, it’s a launchpad. “I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” she says. “But more than that, I’m proud to work for a company that sees potential from day one. At JTI, you’re not just starting a job, you’re building a career.”
For more information about graduate and apprenticeship opportunities at JTI, visit www.jti.com/careers.