At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Retail Graduate Management Programme and develop your leadership skills across various business areas.
- Company: Lidl, a dynamic retail company with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Earn £40,000, enjoy 30 days holiday, a company car, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining hands-on experience in retail management.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:2 degree by September 2026 and a full UK driving licence.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
Summary
£40,000 per annum | 30 days holiday (pro rata) | 10% in-store discount | Company CarÂ
Everyone who works at Lidl brings something unique to the table – but we also have a whole lot in common. We’re curious, collaborative, and ready to make a tangible impact on where we work. Just like you.Â
This is it. Your chance to experience life at Lidl and all it has to offer. With experience spanning across our stores, warehouses & regional offices, you’ll build your leadership skills and develop your knowledge to become a retail manager. Â
This programme is rotational, taking you on a 23-month learning journey that gives you the best possible exposure to our core business areas, along with a range of opportunities to build your experience, resilience, and business acumen.Â
What you’ll do
Year 1: You’ll spend time in each of our core business areas:Â
- Sales (store-based, 16 weeks): You’ll gain experience in key store roles, starting as a Customer Assistant and working your way up to store management.Â
- Logistics (warehouse-based, 16 weeks): You’ll learn the fundamentals of logistics and warehousing by rotating around our 3 core warehouse areas before joining the warehouse management team.Â
- Supply Chain (regional office-based, 16 weeks): You’ll discover how to order products, manage quality and freshness, and deal with suppliers in our complex supply chain.Â
- HR (regional office-based, 4 weeks): You’ll discover how our HR teams facilitate the recruitment, onboarding, training, and development of our regional departments.Â
Â
Year 2: You’ll choose the specialist route you want to take in store, warehouse, or supply chain management. You’ll then spend the next year honing your expertise and crafting your management experience to get the most out of your programme, putting you in the best position to take your career to the next level.Â
This programme is not for the faint hearted, but for the right characters, we offer a real opportunity to develop into a retail leader with the drive, confidence and skill set to succeed.  Â
What you’ll need
- Minimum 2:2 degree (in any discipline), awarded in 2024, 2025 or 2026, but must be graduated by September 2026Â
- A full UK driving licence by 1st February 2026Â
- To live, or be ready to relocate, within a commutable distance from your chosen Regional Distribution CentreÂ
- To be legally entitled to work in the UK on a full-time basisÂ
- Assertiveness and confidence in your communication skillsÂ
- The desire to learn, develop and succeed in a fast-moving, challenging environment
- Able to attend the assessment day on Wednesday 28th January 2026
What you’ll receive
- 30 days holiday (pro rata)Â
- 10% in-store discountÂ
- Company CarÂ
- Pension schemeÂ
- Discounted GymÂ
- Plus, more of the perks you deserveÂ
 Â
We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. Join us to celebrate individuality and grow in a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment.Â
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date. This is to ensure our teams can manage application levels while maintaining a positive candidate experience. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.Â
If you’re ready to get stuck in, want to get more out of your career and make a real difference, find your place at Lidl and apply now.Â
Retail Graduate Management Programme employer: Lidl GB
Contact Detail:
Lidl GB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Graduate Management Programme
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Lidl inside out! Research their values, culture, and recent news. This will help you connect during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since assertiveness is key for this role, try mock interviews with friends or family. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experiences, the better you'll come across.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Lidl employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you, which can give your application a boost.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining Lidl and ready to take on the challenge of the Retail Graduate Management Programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Graduate Management Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity: We want to see your curiosity shine through in your application. Share examples of how you've explored new ideas or tackled challenges in the past. This will show us that you're ready to dive into the diverse experiences we offer.
Be Collaborative: Highlight your teamwork skills! We love candidates who can work well with others. Mention any group projects or team activities where you made a positive impact, as this aligns perfectly with our collaborative culture.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences that match the Retail Graduate Management Programme. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their background to what we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Lidl. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lidl GB
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand Lidl's core business areas and the Retail Graduate Management Programme. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they align with your own. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and assertiveness, as these are key traits for success in this programme. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated these skills, whether in group projects, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the programme, the company culture, or growth opportunities. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you determine if Lidl is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Lidl values individuality, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through during the interview. Be authentic and express your passion for retail and leadership. Remember, they’re looking for candidates who are curious and ready to make an impact!