- Office in Westport
PORTWEST, Grad Ireland's 2023 Graduate employee of the year, is a leading global manufacturer of safety wear, workwear and PPE is currently seeking applications for the position of Commercial Associate in Westport, Co. Mayo on a 2-year contract as part of our 2026 Commercial Graduate Programme. Founded in 1904, Portwest has become one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world currently employing over 5,600 staff worldwide. With 1400 styles across more than 20 ranges, we design, manufacture and distribute market leading workwear, safety wear and PPE in fully owned production facilities.
We are on a mission to become the world’s most requested PPE and Safety Wear Brand.
PORTWEST GRADUATE PROGRAMME
Applications are now being accepted for the Portwest Commercial Graduate Programme 2026. This is a 2-year structured programme which aims to develop your technical and leadership skills. This programme offers rotations across commercial teams, giving you a 360° view of how a global business operates in a fast-paced environment. You will also gain hands-on experience in our UK warehouse, building practical knowledge of operations and logistics. Alongside this, you will benefit from structured learning and development through in-house and external training, plus full access to platforms like LinkedIn Learning and LearnUpon to support your growth.
WHAT YOU’LL DO DURING THE PROGRAMME:
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on strategic commercial projects.
- Support the development and implementation of strategies to drive market share and revenue growth.
- Analyse market trends and customer data to inform decision-making and optimise performance.
- Contribute to process improvements, bringing fresh, data-driven ideas to enhance efficiency.
- Support the planning and execution of customer events and global sales conferences.
- Project-manage and maintain reports, tracking data and insights for key stakeholders.
- Build a deep understanding of global markets, their unique needs, and Portwest’s overall strategy.
- Take part in structured technical and leadership training as part of your professional development.
- Ad hoc projects or tasks based on business needs.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Our Graduate Programme Associates are our future leaders. As well as receiving well-rounded experience across several departments, you will also participate in:
- A structured leadership development programme focusing on communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Technical skills training tailored to your commercial career path.
- Ongoing coaching, mentorship and support to help you maximise your potential.
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAMME:
- A recent graduate (or final-year student) with a Business-related level 8 degree (graduating between 2024–2026).
- Proficiency in a second language would be considered an advantage
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven mindset.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
- Team player with strong interpersonal skills.
- A proactive, adaptable attitude and passion for learning.
- Strong commercial acumen and an interest in driving business growth.
#LI-RG1
COMPANY AWARDS
- Great Place To Work 2024
- Private Irish Business of the year – Export Industry Awards 2024
- Silver Ecovadis Sustainability Rating 2025
Applicants must have a right to live and work in the relevant jurisdiction.
Portwest is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, civil status, veteran status, family status, disability status or membership of a minority group.
