Lidl Marketing Graduate Programme: A Launchpad for Your Career
Are you a driven and curious individual looking to kickstart a dynamic career in marketing? Lidl's Marketing Graduate Programme offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience and structured development within a fast-paced and impactful retail environment. This programme is designed for ambitious graduates who are eager to learn, grow, and make a tangible difference.
What the Opportunity Entails:
This two-year, intensive programme provides a comprehensive rotation across three core pillars of Lidl's marketing function. You'll gain invaluable insight and practical experience in:
- Media & Strategy: Dive into the strategic planning and media buying processes, working with agencies to ensure Lidl's advertising reaches the right audience, at the right time, and in the right places. This is your chance to understand the backbone of effective campaign placement.
- Campaigns: Become a master of project management, overseeing brand, trade-driving, and business-as-usual campaigns from concept to execution. You'll collaborate with in-house teams and external creative agencies, managing all campaign channels from TV and radio to in-store promotions and digital platforms.
- Engagement: Connect directly with customers by creating meaningful experiences through partnerships, events, and communications. You'll contribute to bringing global initiatives to life, develop local store marketing strategies, and leverage PR and award submissions to amplify brand and product value.
Throughout your rotations, you will also work closely with Lidl's in-house production and creative teams, gaining exposure to the design, artwork, and creation of all marketing collateral, from still imagery to moving visuals.
Key Advantages for Aspiring Marketers:
- Structured Development: The programme offers a well-defined pathway to learn and excel in various marketing disciplines, ensuring a robust foundation for your future career.
- Real-World Impact: You'll be involved in creating campaigns that directly influence customer perception and drive business objectives, understanding the true meaning of "More to Value" for Lidl's customers.
- Cross-Functional Exposure: Experience working across different marketing specialisms will provide a holistic understanding of how diverse teams collaborate to achieve common goals.
- Brand Exposure: Lidl is a brand that resonates with millions. You'll contribute to campaigns that shape public perception and build strong customer loyalty, from everyday essentials to aspirational lifestyle products.
- Tangible Rewards: Beyond invaluable experience, successful candidates will receive a competitive salary of £40,000* per annum, 30 days holiday (pro rata), and a generous 10% in-store discount. An additional 10% non-contractual London Weighting allowance also applies.
Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Academic Foundation: A minimum of a 2:2 degree in any discipline is required, with completion expected by September 2026.
- Location: The role requires you to either already live within a one-hour commute of Lidl GB Head Office in Tolworth, Surrey, or be happy to relocate. This proximity is crucial for on-site engagement and programme participation.
- Adaptability and Drive: This is an intense and demanding programme. Candidates should possess an entrepreneurial flair, be highly driven, adaptable, and comfortable working under pressure to meet deadlines and targets.
- Teamwork and Independence: A passion for working collaboratively as part of a team, coupled with the ability to work independently and take initiative, is essential for success.
- Analytical and Communicative Skills: A naturally analytical mindset, strong attention to detail, and confident, effective communication skills are key to navigating the complexities of marketing strategy and execution.
- Legal Eligibility: You must be legally entitled to work in the UK on a full-time basis.
- Desirable Skills: While not essential, German language skills would be a valuable asset in this global organisation.
Lidl champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. If you are ready to immerse yourself in a challenging yet rewarding marketing journey, contribute to a respected brand, and grow your career exponentially, this programme is an excellent step forward.
Please note: Due to high application volumes, vacancies may close earlier than advertised. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly to avoid disappointment.