Retail Leaders School Leaver Programme - Cardiff - Culverhouse Cross 2025

Learn to lead and see what it takes to manage one of our multi-million-pound stores.

This is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience and start your journey towards becoming a Store Manager. Due to high interest, applications may close earlier than advertised. To avoid disappointment, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll be at the heart of our stores, getting close to customers and colleagues while learning the routines and processes that make sure our stores run smoothly. This role is about being hands-on, working across all the departments to understand each role and learn from experienced managers. You’ll see firsthand how our managers adapt to the unpredictable challenges that arise daily, all while maintaining the highest standards of service.

Throughout the programme, you’ll rotate through our different departments in store, including Food, Clothing, and Home and Hospitality, gaining comprehensive knowledge and experience that will prepare you to step into a Deputy or Store Manager position. And your development doesn’t stop there. We’ll continue to support you to progress your career, whether that means taking on larger stores or exploring other areas of the business to broaden your expertise. Six months into the programme, you will also have the option to study towards a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship in Business Management if you choose.

What you’ll need

This programme is specifically designed for those who haven’t been to university but are looking to progress a career in retail. A love for learning and the determination to tackle challenges with enthusiasm are essential. We’ll need you to be proactive and adaptable in our fast-paced industry. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of their preferred programme.

What we look for

To thrive in this role, you’ll need to be a proactive team player who’s hands-on, with a “say it, do it” attitude and a natural ability to connect with both customers and colleagues. You’ll be eager to take on responsibility and committed to working hard to get the job done. Success here means being quick on your feet, solving problems with confidence, and staying calm under pressure. If you’re ambitious, adaptable, and ready to work with the best, we want to hear from you.

Learning & support

Your development is our priority. We’ll give you a structured programme including mentoring, on-the-job training, and opportunities to solve real challenges that will help you build a long-term career at M&S. And, if we believe you can reach your potential faster, we will give you the tools and opportunities to do it. But the person who is really going to make this happen is you. With our support, we want you to own and drive your development. Get access to resources to support your wellbeing, including a free virtual GP service. We’ll provide reasonable adjustments during the interview process. Just tell us what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate you.

Application process

Your first step will be to complete our online application form and tell us more about who you are and why you want to work with us. You can only apply to one graduate or school leaver programme during this recruitment cycle that starts in October 2024. We’ll invite you to take part in an online assessment, where you can find out more about M&S whilst we find out more about you. If your online assessment is successful, you’ll be invited to an assessment centre alongside your peers. The recruitment process for store-based roles will also include an opportunity to attend your final interview in one of our stores.