Sainsbury’s Launches Graduate Scheme To Build Pipeline of Retail Leaders

The two‑year FutureMaker graduate programme aims to nurture the next generation of retail leaders with skills in digital and AI, data and analytics, change and transformation, and business decision making. 

Image: Sainsbury's

The scheme is the first in a broader series of early careers programmes that Sainsbury’s plans to roll out, the retailer explained in a press release.

Running for 24 months, FutureMaker is structured as a three-part programme, with eight‑month rotations in a chosen Sainsbury’s SSC (Store Support Centre) specialism.

Sainsbury’s said the scheme forms part of its people-first approach, aiming to build a sustainable retail talent pipeline and to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves. 

“We’re committed to investing in early careers and have spent time identifying the skills our future leaders will need to help us build a sustainable retail talent pipeline,” noted a Sainsbury’s spokesperson.

“The FutureMaker programme will nurture critical skills in digital and AI; data and analytics; change and transformation; and business decision making. By opening accessible pathways for graduates, we’re investing in both our business growth and a more inclusive workforce, ensuring our teams reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.” 

Roles and Opportunities

FutureMaker is positioned as an accessible pathway for graduates who want to shape customer experiences and contribute to making everyday shopping more joyful, accessible and affordable. 

The programme will make available around 50 roles, which will give participating graduates the chance to work on real projects across Sainsbury’s and Argos. 

Roles span: buying, commercial operations, digital retail, merchandising, data science and analytics, food technology, logistics and fulfilment, supply chain, transformation, property and procurement, as well as product and innovation. 

Participants that finish the programme will be able to apply for relevant permanent roles within the business. 

Applications open on Friday 9 January 2026, with details available on Sainsbury’s early careers website.