Two female team members working at a Coles supermarket by the dairy section

Store Manager
Accelerator Program

Ready to accelerate your career into store management?

The Store Manager Accelerator Program (SMAP) is designed for ambitious candidates, offering a blended learning experience that includes hands-on practical learning through store placements, shadowing, self-paced and facilitator – led training, as well as mentoring and coaching to support your journey into a store management role. 

Applications for the 2025 SMAP program are now OPEN!
Two female team members walking down the ailse at Coles supermarket

Who can apply to the program?

A male and female team member having a meeting in front of the computer in the office
We are looking for women who have the drive to make a real difference in their local community, and be a great fit for this one-of-a-kind career opportunity.
  • Experience leading a large, high performing team with proven experience in a retail, FMCG, or other fast-paced environments
  • Self-motivated and results-focussed are part of your personal ‘DNA’
  • Naturally enthusiastic and energetic, thriving in a fast-paced environment

What does the program include

In this six-month development program, you'll gain a solid understanding of Coles and the key processes of a Store Manager role, with dedicated support from day one to build your skills and confidence.
Three female team members having a meeting together inside a Coles supermarket aisle

Peer-to-peer support
A support network that includes your Line Manager, a Buddy, and the Talent Programs team, along with peer-to-peer support from your cohort and dedicated mentors to guide you every step of the way.
Female team member training to male and female staff members at Coles

Training
Centrally coordinated training and development, including shadowing opportunities from a regional manager and head of store operations, self-paced and facilitator-led training, mentoring and coaching.
Five Coles employees interacting in the lunch room

Develop your network
The program gives you the opportunity to experience multiple store settings, build a professional network and credibility with team members.
Two female team members working together and looking at notes in a clipboard inside the supermarket

Step into store management
As a store manager you will be at the forefront of the business, accountable for all aspects of the store. We rely on our brilliant leaders to help us serve over 21 million customers a week.

The Recruitment Process

 Application

Submit your application online with your most updated resume and a cover letter, including your availability to start. We’ll review your application against the role criteria, and if your skills and experience match, we’ll be in touch by phone or email.

We’re here to support you by ensuring candidates with disability are offered an accessible, equitable and supportive recruitment experience.
Learn more

Interview

If you're invited to the interview stage, you'll have two interviews with our retail leadership teams at a time that suits you. Each interview will run for up to an hour, giving you a chance to learn more about the program and ask any questions.

Offer & Pre-hire checks

You’ll be notified if you’ve been selected for the program or placed in our candidate pool for future opportunities.

If you're offered a spot in the program, you’ll need to provide identification to verify your working rights and complete a police check. Just follow the process when notified.

Welcome to Coles

Your induction kicks off on day one. Throughout the program, there’s plenty to learn, and our Talent Programs team will be in touch to support you along the way.

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