Hannah at Aldi

Having completed an Industrial Placement at Aldi it really helped me when I was successful in securing a place on the Area Manager Programme. It allowed me to have an even better overview of the whole business as well as a broader knowledge of the different levels of Aldi, and I built really valuable relationships. You realise quickly that everyone is there for each other, regardless of their position. There hasn’t been a single day where I’ve felt on my own. For example, during my first Christmas as an Area Manager, my Store Operations Director called and visited me a lot more than usual to make sure that I was succeeding. It was our busiest period of the year, so the support at that time was really crucial for me.

I love how diverse, challenging and exciting my role is as an Area Manager. But I also like having a real impact on the business. When I make a decision that improves my area, it has the chance to go across the whole of the UK. In fact, Aldi always encourage you to bring your own ideas to the table. My advice to anyone looking to do either an Industrial Placement Programme or the Area Manager Programme is just be yourself. I know it sounds cliché. But it’s so important. Everyone is different at Aldi, and that’s why it works. So make sure your personality shines through.