In today’s competitive business environment, Irish companies face a unique challenge in recruiting and retaining skilled sales professionals. Sales is the lifeblood of any organisation, yet finding and developing talent in this area can be difficult.
The Sales Apprenticeship Programme, developed in collaboration with industry experts and supported by Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), is designed to bridge this gap. Its mission is simple: to provide committed, adaptable, and highly skilled individuals who can drive growth for businesses across Ireland.
Designed by Industry, for Industry
Launched in 2020, this award-winning programme was created with direct input from employers to ensure it meets real-world business needs. Since its inception, more than 200 SMEs nationwide have benefited, upskilling existing staff and training new hires for successful careers in sales.
Programme Highlights
The Sales Apprenticeship is a two-year programme leading to a Level 6 QQI Major Award, combining academic learning with practical, on-the-job experience. Apprentices remain employed full-time while completing their studies through a blended learning model:
- 2 hours online per week
- 2 classroom days every 6–8 weeks
This flexible structure allows businesses to maintain productivity while apprentices gain essential skills.
What Will Apprentices Learn?
The curriculum covers essential and advanced sales competencies:
Year 1 Modules:
- Sales Fundamentals
- Marketing in the 21st Century
- Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Psychology of Sales
- Customer Service in the Experience Economy
- Sales Coaching
- Sales Forecasting and Budgeting
Year 2 Modules:
- Digital Skills
- Consultative Selling
- Thriving in a Multicultural Sales Environment
- Leadership Skills
- Action Entrepreneurship
- Showcase Project
These modules ensure apprentices develop expertise in both traditional and modern sales techniques, preparing them for success in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Benefits for Employers
Employers enjoy significant advantages when participating in the programme:
- Zero training costs – Fully funded by the Government
- €4,000 employer grant per apprentice
- Flexible registration criteria
- Suitable for all industries and sales roles
- Helps attract and retain top talent
Companies of all sizes—from SMEs to large organisations—can apply. The programme is ideal for both new hires and existing staff looking to upskill.
What Employers Say
Jayne Wolfe, Sales Manager at Topline Heavins & Euronics, shares:
“It’s a great opportunity to develop their on-the-job skills as well as progressing with a Level 6 qualification, and it holds a very good work/college balance too.”
Darren Vaughan, COO at Energywise Ireland, adds:
“The training received is not only beneficial for her professional development but also greatly enhances our team’s overall performance. I wholeheartedly recommend this programme to other businesses aiming to develop their sales teams.”
Career Progression
Graduates of the Sales Apprenticeship gain a nationally recognised qualification and practical experience, opening doors to roles such as Sales Executive, Account Manager, Business Development Specialist, and beyond. Many also progress to higher education or advanced professional certifications.
Upcoming Start Dates
- TIPPERARY – 2nd Mar 2026- Tipperary Education and Training Board (Thurles, Tipperary)
- KERRY – 23rd Mar 2026- Kerry Education and Training Board (Tralee, Co. Kerry)
- MAYO – 20th Apr 2026- Mayo College of Further Education and Training (Swinford Campus, Co. Mayo)
- CORK – 7th Sept 2026 –Cork College of Further Education and Training (Bishopstown, Cork)
- LEITRIM – 7th Sept 2026- Mayo, Sligo, and Leitrim Education and Training Board (The Bush Hotel, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim)
- LOUTH – Jan 2027 – Drogheda Institute of Further Education (Drogheda, Co. Louth)
Find Out More
Weekly online information sessions provide an overview of programme content, employer grants, eligibility criteria, and the registration process.
Contact: salesapprenticeship@msletb.ie