Calling future leaders: become a Starbucks store manager in just 13 months
“I’m someone who likes to embrace every new opportunity that comes my way so when my manager suggested that I should apply to the Accelerated Leadership Programme (ALP), I was intrigued to find out what it takes to become a store manager and to learn something new,” says Reina, a Green Apron Partner working in our store in Chiswick, UK.
Reina is enrolled in Starbucks Accelerated Leadership Programme, a 13-month course that culminates in becoming a store manager from entry level – a journey that usually takes at least three years. The programme is now open to new candidates, following a round of applications earlier in the year, with roles available across the country, including major cities like London, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Read on to find out more about the programme and how to apply.
Open doors with Starbucks Accelerated Leadership Programme
Open to over 20 people, the ALP is completely free for our partners and designed for those who hope to work towards a management-level role. No previous hospitality or work experience is required – just ambition and passion to grow.
For everyone chosen, we’re investing £5,000 (per person) into your professional development – giving you the tools and support you need to succeed in your career, wherever it takes you.
By the end of the 13 months, you will graduate with a Level 3 apprenticeship qualification – which is the equivalent to an A-level. The ALP opens doors to more than just Starbucks stores. While it’s a fast-track to becoming a store manager, there’s no obligation to stay with Starbucks after you’ve finished.
“We’re delighted to open further applications for our Accelerated Leadership Programme,” says Alex Rayner, General Manager, Starbucks UK. “Our success starts and ends with our Green Apron Partners. Whether you’re just leaving school or exploring a fresh start, Starbucks is a place where you can be yourself, work with great people, craft your path and spread joy every day through the power of coffee.”
Reina had already been working with Starbucks before starting the Accelerated Leadership Programme, having moved to the UK from Tenerife. We caught up with her before her shift to find out how she’s finding the course, which she started in May this year.
Reina told us she finds the programme’s flexibility especially helpful, as she is able to fit the sessions around her busy schedule. “So far, I’m really enjoying it,” she says, “it’s compressed into bite-sized online sessions which makes it a lot more manageable, so I can fit it around my shifts in the store.”
As well as honing your customer service skills, the programme also focuses on building strong interpersonal skills – such as time management, decision making and leadership. “English is my second language, so I was worried about keeping up,” Reina admits, “but the sessions are super easy to understand. I always feel like I’ve learned something new.”
Throughout the programme – which is delivered by our training partner Corndel – you’ll get hands-on experience in our stores and learn what it really takes to become a confident, well-rounded hospitality manager. At the same time, you’ll be working towards gaining a professional accreditation from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Over the 13 months, you will:
- Gain essential hands-on, in-store experience
- Build leadership and team management skills
- Strengthen your commercial and strategic understanding
- Develop your decision-making
- Improve time management
- Learn how to deliver standout customer experience
- Understand how to resolve conflict and deescalate
- Network with other partners across the UK
Throughout the course, you’ll receive one-on-one mentoring, with frequent check-ins with a tutor to provide additional support whenever you need it. “My favourite lesson so far has been learning about happiness at work,” Reina said, “things like managing your time or finding strategies to improve your wellbeing. I didn’t realise that would be something we’d be taught as store managers, but it is important – for ourselves and our team.”
“I don’t know what the future holds for me or whether I’ll stay here in the UK, but now I’ll have the skills to succeed no matter where life takes me,” she adds.
Applications are open from 7th July until 21st July. To apply, visit: https://corndel.foleon.com/starbucks/starbucks-learner-hub/
