Morrisons is searching for 1,000 future leaders to join a programme that aims to provide a route into employment and a foundation degree at one of the UK’s top business schools.
The Morrisons Futures Programme is being launched as A-level students receive their results this week. It aims to help young people gain hands on experience in food retail and a management education without the need to run up student debts. The focus of the recruitment programme will be on 18-24 year olds with A-Level qualifications. Morrisons aims to start 1,000 people on the programme in the next 18months with the first 100 starting in the Autumn.
Norman Pickavance, Morrisons Group HR Director, said: “This is an opportunity for young people who have the right drive and attitude to develop to senior management levels in the company and is also part of our wider philosophy of bringing the best out of all our people. It offers a genuine alternative to self-funded university qualifications and develops the work we have been doing in ensuring colleagues gain access to NVQs and Craft apprenticeships.”
The key elements of the Morrisons Futures Programme are structured on and off the job training and education through the following pathway: Candidates must first gain a full time position in one of Morrisons’ 459 stores, where they will learn about food retailing. Successful colleagues will then get the opportunity to study for a Foundation Degree in Retail Management from the Bradford University School of Management taking up to three years to complete. There will be senior management opportunities in stores and beyond. Morrisons is making the investment to support its expansion plans and boost the company’s talent pipeline. Morrisons has a tradition of growing its own managers from the shop floor to top floor and in the last year has promoted two colleagues to the Management Board who joined the business at 17. Morrisons is looking for three key attributes for successful candidates: the right attitude and enthusiasm for food retailing, ability to learn and ambition. Candidates should have two Bs and a C at A-level.
The programme will be open to existing colleagues and external candidates who meet the criteria and demonstrate the will and aptitude required.
Education and training will be provided at regional centres around the UK and through eight hours-a-week of home study supported by materials from the Bradford University and Elmfield Training. Candidates who are interested in the Foundation Degree programme should enquire at the Customer Service Desk in their local store, and ask to speak to the Store Personnel Manager.
Published 16/08/2011