Questions and answers
Mars: common questions about working there
Hiring process, interview format, pay bands, benefits — sourced from Mars's own materials and our editorial review.
- Why do you want to work at Mars?
Reference Mars's Five Principles (Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom) and explain how they align with your own values. Mention specific Mars brands you connect with, the company's global presence, or the career development opportunities available. Avoid generic answers — interviewers want to see genuine interest in Mars specifically, not just any FMCG job.
- How do you approach building a new customer relationship?
For sales roles, this question is almost certain to come up. Describe starting with active listening and understanding the customer's needs, then building trust through follow-through and regular contact. Mention your experience managing accounts in NSW, QLD, VIC, or wherever you've worked if it's relevant to the territory.
- What do you know about the competitive landscape in the confectionery or pet food market?
Prepare for this question by researching Mars's key competitors in both confectionery (e.g., Nestlé, Mondelez) and pet care (e.g., Purina). Understanding shelf position dynamics in Australian supermarkets and the role of category management will strengthen your answer considerably, particularly for commercial and sales roles.
- How many rounds of interviews does Mars Australia typically have?
Most roles involve two rounds — an initial HR screen followed by a structured competency-based interview with the hiring manager. Senior and graduate roles may include a third round or a case study presentation. The total process from application to offer usually takes three to six weeks.
- Does Mars use psychometric testing in Australia?
Yes, for graduate and some management roles, Mars includes online aptitude and personality assessments as part of the selection process. These are typically completed before or after the first interview round. You'll be informed in advance if any assessments are required.