You will find the answers to some common questions below:
When can I apply?
You can apply online by clicking 'Apply Now' at the top of this screen.
What are the qualification requirements?
The Farmfoods Management Development Programme is open to any graduate with a 2:2 in any discipline. The degree does not have to be retail or management related.
Are there any other requirements?
You should also hold a full UK driving licence and have the right to work in the UK. Proof of both of these will be requested.
What is the application process?
Stage One - Application Form
The online application form consists of a number of short questions which enable us to get know a bit more about you and also to help you decide if we are the right company for you.
Stage Two - Telephone Interview
If your online application is successful you will be contacted to arrange a telephone interview. This will be a short interview to help us get to know you a bit better.
Stage Three - Assessment Centre
If you are successful at stage two you will be invited to attend an assessment centre. This is the final stage of the recruitment process and will last for a whole day. It will consist of a series of group tasks and a final interview with member of the Farmfoods management team.
Where and when will the Assessment Centres be held?
Assessment centres will be held in 6 different locations around the country, details of which you can find on this page.
When completing your application form you will be asked to select which Assessment centre you would prefer to attend, if your application reaches that stage.
How long is the programme?
The Farmfoods Management Development Programme lasts for 12 months
Will training be provided?
Full training and support will be provided throughout the programme and you will complete our comprehensive e-learning training courses. In addition, approximately half way through the programme you will complete a CMI Level 5 residential training course in business management. This will cover many different theory and practical aspects of business management including; communication, leadership, handling personnel matters and decision making. Your success on this course is a condition of your continued employment with Farmfoods.
What happens at the end of the programme?
At the end of the programme you will have a final review with members of the senior management team. Upon successful completion you will be assigned a permanent branch to make your own.
Will I be guaranteed a job at the end of the programme?
You will be offered a permanent position with us providing you have passed the criteria set out for the programme, for example passing your CMI training course and satisfactorily completing your regular reviews. Your final review will take place in August at the end of the programme. For the right people Farmfoods is a job for life.
I think I might want to end up in another part of the business, e.g. distribution, buying or service management. What are my 'options'?
Following your successful completion of the programme you will be assigned a permanent branch manager position. You will also be able to discuss opportunities for your future career with Farmfoods. Where you go after the programme is down to your own ability, personality and determination. There are permanent and secondment opportunities regularly available across our business from progressing to larger branch management, multi site management, distribution, administration, commercial and more. These opportunities require different abilities and skills and are always competitive but after completing our management development programme you are uniquely placed to succeed wherever your ambitions lie.
What will my working hours typically be?
You will work 45 hours per week across 5 days. Retail is definitely not a Monday to Friday 9 to 5 job, so if this is what you are looking for you need not apply. Our teams work hard and nobody knocks off early. At Farmfoods we expect to go home a little tired, but pleased with a day's work well done.
What sort of support will I receive?
You will receive full support and training throughout your time on our programme including e-learning, a residential training course and on the job training.
You will also have your own mentor who will perform regular reviews with you to ensure you are progressing well, and who you can contact at any time should you have any concerns or questions.
How many people are you looking to recruit?
For the 2015 programme we are looking to recruit up to 50 people.
Why is the Farmfoods Management Development Programme a better opportunity than others?
You will not find another programme that better balances training, responsibility and the buzz of a fast paced job. Add to that a guaranteed secure job (following successful completion) at a national company with great opportunities and family values and we believe the Farmfoods Management Development Programme is truly first in class.
When can I expect to hear about the status of my application?
Shortly after you apply you should receive an email thanking you for submitting your application and confirming that it has been received.
If I am unsuccessful can I receive feedback?
We are unfortunately unable to provide feedback at the application form stage due to the high volume of online applications we receive. However, we are happy to provide feedback following the assessment centre if you request it.
If I am unsuccessful can I apply again?
Absolutely, you are welcome to apply again once our applications open for next year's intake. Just make sure you take on board any feedback provided.
I'm a mature student, can I still apply?
Of course, we have no age limits on our programme.
I'm a current Farmfoods employee, can I still apply?
Of course, please email training@farmfoods.co.uk for an internal application form.