Morrisons is celebrating the first graduates from its new leadership programme.

The inaugural cohort from the Sir Ken Morrison Leadership School completed the six-month scheme at a ceremony hosted by the University of Bradford.

A total of 187 colleagues graduated, with 39 achieving distinction.

Rami Baitiéh, chief executive of Morrisons, said: “At Morrisons we’re passionate about unlocking opportunities for our colleagues and developing the leaders of tomorrow.

“The leadership school programme builds on Sir Ken’s innovative and hard-working spirit, and is designed to help any colleague who has what it takes to progress.

“We are already seeing very positive outcomes from these early phases.

“This is just the start and we’re excited about the potential of the programme as we expand it further in the years ahead.”

Launched in summer 2024 by Mr Baitiéh, the leadership school adopts an “inverted pyramid” approach, allowing any colleague with the ambition to progress to apply, rather than relying on management nominations.

The programme is independently moderated and verified by the University of Bradford.

It is designed to build leadership capability across the company, identify future leaders, improve diversity at all levels, and foster greater collaboration and understanding across the business.

Morrisons chairman Sir Terry Leahy mentored the first cohort of candidates.

The scheme includes up to six classes per cohort in leadership and technical theory, practical application, and business experience.

It is delivered by senior leaders at Morrisons, with Mr Baitiéh also leading specific sessions.

The programme also supports peer coaching and cross-functional networking.

More than 750 colleagues have enrolled in the scheme in its first year.

Mr Baitiéh said: “Female and ethnic diversity is ahead of existing percentages at relevant levels; the peer coaching groups are increasing collaboration; and graduates of the programme are demonstrating higher self-awareness and stronger leadership skills in their roles.”

Three cohorts are enrolled each year in September, January, and April.

Morrisons said the programme is delivering strong early results.

The retailer said the programme has already contributed to improved diversity, stronger leadership skills among graduates, and a more collaborative culture.

It plans to expand the scheme further in the coming years.