M&S resets early careers programmes as it looks for next generation of retail leaders
M&S has relaunched its early careers programmes and opened applications for its 2024 intake.
The retailer is looking to attract 114 people to its Retail Leaders Programme including 38 school leavers and 76 graduates. This means that M&S has quadrupled the number of places available as part of its commitment to find the best retail talent.
M&S said each programme will have a greater focus on the store experience, with each aligned to three key business areas of retail, food, and clothing and home.
The retailer said participants will be hands-on from day one to enable them to build the skills and experience needed to manage a store. By the end of year two or three, they will be managing a shop of their own.
Six months after starting the Retail Leaders programme, school leavers will also have the opportunity to complete a degree-equivalent apprenticeship, which will be optional.
