Sainsbury’s has launched a new graduate programme with 50 roles available to support early career professionals.

The retailer is opening applications on Friday (9 January), with the scheme set to launch in September.

Participants of the FutureMaker programme will spend two years at the supermarket learning skills across four areas, including digital and AI, data and analytics, change and transformation, and business decision-making.

Sainsbury’s will run the scheme for 24 months, which will be separated into eight-month rotations within a chosen specialisation.

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A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “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.

“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.”

Some of the roles offered include buying, commercial operations, digital retail, merchandising, data science and analytics and food technology.

The scheme will operate across Sainsbury’s and Argos and is part of the retailer’s commitment to investing in talent development and attraction.