Judith Streicher, 26, is currently in the third semester of a dual master's degree with a Master of Arts International Retail Management degree to become a regional sales manager and joined ALDI SÜD through an internship. In the interview she describes her experiences during the internship. As a regional sales manager, after completing her studies, she will be given responsibility for four to five branches with around 50 employees.
From the lecture hall straight into management: An internship at ALDI SÜD offers quick opportunities for advancement within the company
Ms Streicher, how did the selection process for your internship go?
During my bachelor's degree, I became aware of ALDI SÜD as a potential employer because of my focus on retail and logistics. After successfully completing my studies, I decided to do a two-month internship. The application process went very quickly. Two days after my application, I received an invitation to an interview with the managing director of the regional company. The interview was much more relaxed than I had imagined. It was a free interview, personal, pleasant and took about two hours.
How is the internship structured? Are there different locations?
The internship includes a stay in administration, where you gain insights into the processes in accounting and human resources. I also accompanied various regional sales managers and was able to get a taste of areas of responsibility such as personnel management and controlling of store key figures. My first day started in the administration with a welcome from the management and the introduction of my mentor, who looked after me during my internship. Overall, the length of the internship varies between four weeks and six months depending on the regional company and is fairly compensated.
What tips can you give other applicants about the internship selection process?
As a regional sales manager, you will be responsible for personnel in the future. It is certainly helpful if applicants have a high degree of hands-on mentality, decision-making skills and empathy. At the same time, you are responsible for the sales of your branches. Therefore, a strong understanding of key figures is helpful. The group of companies stands for simplicity, responsibility and reliability. So if you have the will to implement changes and remain down-to-earth, ALDI SÜD is the right place for you.
You have successfully started your career. What plans do you have for your future career?
My internship confirmed to me that ALDI SÜD is the ideal employer for me. After feedback discussions with the head of sales and the managing director, I was offered on-the-job training to become a regional sales manager and thus direct entry into the management and thus leadership level. Since I would like to have a master's degree, I decided on another option: a dual master's degree. As soon as I finish my studies, I will be assigned my own area as regional sales manager, consisting of around four to five branches with around 50 employees. If you are suitable and there are vacancies, there is then the possibility of being posted to one of our regional companies abroad, for example in Australia, Great Britain or the USA.
In an interview, Judith Streicher tells us what an internship at ALDI SÜD looks like.
