The programme
We’ve already mentioned that this programme is a little bit special. After all, the opportunity to become a Commercial Manager in less than two years is fairly incredible in itself. But what else is there to look forward to?
In short – lots. Over the course of 24 months, you’ll get to know retail management inside out, through a well-balanced combination of on-the-job learning, real-life project work, and development activities. And on top of all that, you’ll be earning the best salary on the high street for this type of programme. It doesn’t end there either. As you progress, you’ll enjoy a series of pay rises too. But more about those later.
Key facts
Welcome to M&S – this aims to provide a really good induction experience. It introduces you to our organisation and its values, stores and head office. It lasts a maximum of two weeks.
The trainee management programme lasts for two years, and is made up of two stages. Stage One will see you gaining a strong foundation in retail management by developing the knowledge and skills of a Section Manager. Stage Two focuses your development towards your target role of Commercial Manager.
Getting to grips – this means learning about a specific area. Whether it’s a part of General Merchandise, Foods, HR or Operations, you’ll have time to access the relevant learning material, talk to and work alongside others, learn the new tasks and develop your skills both in terms of technical and business competencies. During this time, you’ll need to refer to the sign-off statements to ensure you are on track.
Putting it into practice – this is all about applying what you’ve learnt to real life scenarios, gaining experience and demonstrating you can meet the required sign-off standards in the process.
Pre-appointment relief – this is something everyone completes. It’s a key part of your programme, and your chance to put everything you’ve learnt into practice by working at the level of your target job in a different store to where you have been learning.
Performance review and sign-off – this is about regular conversations and reviews with your Line Manager. You will be measured against the technical and competency sign-off statements for the role you are focusing on. Your Line Manager will regularly give you feedback on your performance, and twice a year you'll have a formal review. Your performance record forms the foundation of these reviews, and you’ll be encouraged to use it to help you set personal objectives that support your continued development.
The Trainee Management Scheme is now closed.
Register your interest for our 2009/2010 intake here.
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