1) Long & not very glamorous* working hours:
-in store it's typically 5am/8am/12pm starts depending on your shift, of course weekends are expected (it is retail after all).
-in logistics it varies a lot depending on the department:
- Goods in: 3am starts.
- Selection & transport: rotates- 24 hours operation.
*You might be lucky and paired with other supervisors who prefer the unsociable shifts, but the chances are you must be prepared to work them.
Lidl also have in place an "opt out" ruling in regards to the 47.5hr working week- by signing the contract you state that you are happy to go above these hours - again, be prepared - 10 hour days do happen, but 12 hour days with no breaks are also not uncommon.
2) Assistant Manager = Supervisor
One thing that surprised me was the day to day role of the ATM. Unlike typical management positions, you do not control the recruitment of your team, nor do you have much to do with their professional development. Implementing ideas for improvement, management meetings, along with the other 'fun' elements of management are under the remit of the "Team Manager".
You are there to keep the boat from sinking, rather than to guide the boat.
Though different sites have slightly different practices, much to do revolves around paperwork, entering various information into (quite infuriating) systems, reacting when workers don't show, and numerous checks of the building to make sure standards are met.
The title recently changed from Supervisor, and though the role may change should Lidl become more automated, i would advise those with previous management experience to apply for the Team Manager position, not the ATM.
3) Development
Lidl is becoming well known for offering many graduate programmes, with excellent salaries, and exciting opportunities. Sadly ATM is one level below these exciting positions, and as such don't be surprised that fresh faced grads are entering into the business above you. This can be a frustrating thing, especially if you're a graduate with experience yourself.
Due to the volume of new graduates coming in, positions for them and placing them isn't always possible. Many graduates go a full year without knowing where they'll be based- this however, doesn't bode well for those who wish to also enter in those positons (i.e ATM's wanting to gain promotion). Sure, it's possible, but if you think you're right for the Team Manager role, apply there instead!
4) Current environment/style
Yes, they will pay you well, in both logistics and in store. There is however a culture engrained along with that, that because it's well paid and there's an opt-out for minimum working hours, that the management should drain themselves everyday for it.
A 'hard' management style is in place. I've seen ATM's work 14 hour days because the team below them (who aren't under the same obligations), take the p***, and of course everything falls on the manager.
I expect positive change will arrive, but for now the style in which management operate (area manager, team manager, whichever), is generally very old school, and quick to expect an "action plan" every day, without putting any real thought into how to improve the situation long term.
Overall verdict:
Try your hand at an ATM role for 6 months if you want to save up some money (must be very flexible with where you work and which hours you work).
IF you want any valuable management experience, then apply for the graduate positions (team manager/area manager).