At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a two-year programme to develop your retail management skills and lead a store.
- Company: ASDA, a forward-thinking retailer committed to growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 15% off shopping, flexible pay options, and comprehensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in retail management with real responsibilities and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Open to all graduates; no specific degree or prior experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic placements across Kent & Essex with potential for rapid career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Canterbury
Employment Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent Graduate (Fixed Term)
Hours per Week: 45
Salary: Competitive salary
Category: Store Management
Closing Date: 10 January 2026
Overview
ASDA is committed to growth and innovation. The 2026 Retail Graduate Programme has been developed with current store managers and aims to prepare graduates to become retail leaders of the future. The programme offers responsibility for a store and opportunities to progress through placements within your region, taking on more accountability every six months.
Responsibilities
- Participate in a two-year retail graduate programme with a series of placements across your region to develop store management skills.
- Take on increasing responsibility, including managing rota planning and holidays, and addressing management issues such as disciplinary matters and grievances.
- Progress toward becoming a store manager of the future, with potential to move into an operations manager role in a large store or to manage an express store after two years.
Qualifications & Requirements
- We are not restricting by degree; graduates with the right attitude and a desire for a larger, better career are welcome.
- Prior work or retail experience is not required.
- A valid driving license is preferred but not essential.
- All candidates must have the continuous right to work in the UK; sponsorship is not provided for graduate and apprenticeship programmes.
Application Process
- A short, blended personality and numerical assessment
- Three quick video interview questions
- A half-day assessment centre to meet the team and learn more about the programme
If successful, join ASDA in September 2026. Applications may close before the deadline, so please register your interest promptly.
Benefits
- Colleague discount: 15% off shopping at Asda from day 1 for you and a nominated user
- Discounts on Asda services (mobile, pharmacy, opticians, loans, insurance, travel, tyres, breakdown cover)
- Wagestream: flexible pay, income tracker and financial coaching
- Company pension
- Wellbeing support: 24/7 virtual GP, EAP, free counselling and legal support
- Asda Allies Inclusion Networks to foster inclusion
- Parental leave policies including maternity, adoption, paternity, shared parental leave, neonatal care leave and fertility support
- Colleague recognition programme
- Special offers across services and activities
Note: This description reflects the information provided about the role and programme. All content is for information purposes and may be updated by ASDA.
Retail Graduate Manager - Kent & Essex in England employer: ASDA
Contact Detail:
ASDA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Graduate Manager - Kent & Essex in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research ASDA's values and culture so you can show how you fit in. This will help you stand out during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for those video interview questions by recording yourself answering them. This way, you can refine your delivery and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former ASDA employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t wait until the last minute! Apply through our website as soon as you can. The sooner you get your application in, the better your chances of landing that spot in the Retail Graduate Programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Graduate Manager - Kent & Essex in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for retail and your desire to grow with us.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Retail Graduate Manager role. We love seeing candidates who understand what we’re about and how they can contribute!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Use bullet points if it helps to get your message across effectively.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute! Applications may close before the deadline, so get your application in as soon as possible through our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at ASDA
✨Know Your Programme
Familiarise yourself with the Retail Graduate Programme at ASDA. Understand its structure, the responsibilities you'll take on, and how it prepares you for future leadership roles. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Attitude
Since ASDA is looking for graduates with the right attitude rather than specific degrees, be ready to demonstrate your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Share examples from your past experiences that highlight your adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
✨Prepare for the Assessments
The application process includes personality and numerical assessments, as well as video interview questions. Practice common numerical problems and think about how your personality traits align with ASDA's values. This preparation will help you feel more at ease during the assessments.
✨Engage During the Assessment Centre
If you make it to the assessment centre, remember it's not just about showcasing your skills but also about engaging with the team. Ask insightful questions about the programme and the company culture. This shows your interest and helps you determine if ASDA is the right fit for you.