The application process from the start to reaching the face to face interview stage consisted of CV review and application, situational awareness/psychometric questioning, numeracy aptitude testing, verbal reasoning aptitude testing and diagrammatical aptitude testing over a period of 10 weeks. Then called for a group assessment/interview that lasted four and half hours at their Mitchelstown Head Office (11 were originally meant to be there but 2 dropped out on the day). The start was 9am and finished at 1.30pm...straight through, no breaks. The MD of Aldi was taking the interview and committed his morning and part of the after noon. The process consisted of a "round the table" intro by each candidate followed by a question given by MD whereby you had 10 mins prep time and then presented to rest of group and MD plus Q&A. This was then followed by an exercise around reviewing "employee" CV's for a hypothetical project. Who would you hire out of the 4 CV's and why? (an additional 5th CV thrown in toward the end of the 20 minute time period to also review) Think the idea was to assess your ability to make a case for your chosen CV candidate and perhaps to influence others...leadership skill set being assessed. This was then followed by a discussion whereby the room had to decide upon a candidate although our group was not unanimous in its decision. The MD contributed to the post decision review and was asking challenging questions perhaps to gauge if individuals would change their minds or hold strong. This was followed by a further Q&A with the MD. He was very open and answered all questions, giving a good overall view of what would be expected of an Aldi Area Manager...no holds barred honesty around the demands of the role. 80+ hours per week if perhaps a new store opening, 60+ hours per week the "norm". He stated it is not for everyone and confirmed that the first 2 years would be especially challenging but in his experience things "settle down" in year 3. Although unsuccessful on this occasion I did feel the process was worthwhile as it was thorough and an interesting experience to understand the Aldi recruitment process. My only negative feedback would be that they do not offer any post interview feedback which for a large employer/Corporate is poor, however perhaps with stereotypical German efficiency...why utilise HR Resource on candidates you are not going to hire! Overall a positive experience and I was impressed with how involved the MD was in the whole process.