Graduate Management Scheme

McDonald's; Leeds; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A global fast-food chain is launching its Graduate Management Programme aimed at developing future leaders through hands-on training in restaurant operations. This role offers a competitive starting salary of £32,000, opportunities for leadership growth, and a pathway to corporate positions. Ideal candidates are graduates with at least 2 years of experience in a fast-paced environment, eager to learn and progress within the company.

Benefits

Up to £7,200 annual KPI bonus

Meal allowances

Up to 6 weeks’ paid holiday

Pension scheme

Discounts on retail brands

Qualifications

• Graduate degree and 2+ years of experience in hospitality/retail.
• Ambitious and committed to career development.
• Flexible availability for shift work.

Responsibilities

• Coach and lead team members for outstanding service.
• Manage performance areas like sales and stock control.
• Ensure team growth and motivation.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Team management

Education

Graduate degree

Job description

Overview

Graduate Management Programme – McDonald’s

£32,000 – £39,200 total earning potential

Working Pattern Required - Full-Time | Fully flexible across weekdays, weekends, early mornings, and late evenings | Immediate start available

Location - Bramley, Leeds. Rooley Lane, Bradford. Ingleby Road, Bradford.

Graduate Role. Global Brand. Real Impact.

Looking to kickstart your career with a world-renowned brand that opens doors to real opportunities?

McDonald’s is launching its Graduate Management Programme, designed to develop the next generation of leaders – both in-restaurant and beyond.

This is more than just a fast-paced management role – it’s your springboard into long-term management career opportunities, including paths into HR, Marketing, Finance, Operations, and more at Head Office, once you’ve mastered the operational core.

Why this Graduate Programme?

Our 2 year structured programme starts is bespoke to each candidate with immersive, hands-on leadership training in our restaurant operations.

You’ll learn how to lead teams, drive results, and deliver exceptional customer experiences – gaining real commercial insight every step of the way.

Once proven, your pathway can open into corporate roles at McDonald’s UK Head Office, fully supported by mentorship, accredited apprenticeships, and a tailored development plan.

What You’ll Be Doing (Years 0–2)

As a Graduate Assistant Manager, you’ll:

• Coach, support and lead team members to deliver outstanding customer service
• Own key performance areas: from sales and profitability to labour and stock control
• Get stuck in during peak times – leading by example
• Ensure your team is growing, motivated, and confident
• Gain a deep understanding of restaurant P&L, health and safety, and team development

Career Progression Pathway

• 0–18 Months: Second Assistant Manager
• 18–36 Months: First Assistant Manager
• Post-36 Months: Transition Pathways into McDonald’s UK Head Office (e.g., Operations Consultant, People Partner, L&D, Marketing Associate)

Want to stay in Operations long term? That’s great too – the next step is Business Manager, overseeing your own restaurant.

What You’ll Get

• £32,000 starting salary, rising with progression
• Up to £7,200 annual KPI bonus
• Up to 6 weeks’ paid holiday
• Meal allowance + discounts on top retail/online brands
• Pension scheme
• Fast-track progression into Head Office opportunities
• A leadership career that starts on the shop floor – but can go anywhere

Is This Right for You?

We’re looking for graduates who are:

• 2+ years experience fast-paced hospitality/retail environment
• Ambitious and serious about career development
• Flexible and open to shift-based work (including evenings and weekends)
• Passionate about people, service, and results
• Clear communicators and natural leaders
• Ready to learn the business from the ground up before moving into strategic roles

What’s the Application Process?

We run a two-stage process to make sure we’re the right fit – for you, and for us:

1. Interview + Behind-the-Scenes Tour
2. Meet Tom, our Learning & Development Manager, and get a feel for our operations in action.
3. Shadow & Final Interview
4. Join a current Shift Manager on the shop floor, then sit down with Saj (Restaurant Owner) for your final interview and development chat.

Ready to Launch Your Leadership Career?

This isn’t your average graduate scheme. It’s an opportunity to learn how a world-class business runs, make an impact early, and prepare for future corporate leadership roles in a global organisation.

Apply now and start your McDonald’s leadership journey.