Morrisons announces supermarket operations degree

19 October 2012 10:18

Supermarket Morrisons has announced that it is to create a new foundation degree in supermarket operations.

The programme incorporates modules covering academic and management skills, basic HR modules and operations management, as well in-depth leadership and logistics study. Students will be taught by leading academic staff, including three globally recognised professors based within the institute. The blend of leadership and logistics modules are delivered in a block format allowing the employees to attend without impacting their employment responsibilities and a part of the course will be delivered at one of Morrisons sites to enhance the learning via on-site engagement.

The aim of this specially designed programme is to closely connect theoretical learning with the workplace environment. As part of the programme, students will tackle three business improvement projects – two from within the organisation. They will present their findings to their management team and implement positive changes within their working life.

Four cohorts of 25 students, taken from across the business, will study for a Foundation Degree in Leadership and Logistics with the institute, which is internationally renowned for logistics education and research. The first cohort is due to graduate in July 2014.

Nathan Clements, HR director for manufacturing and logistics, at Morrisons, commented: 'Efficiently moving food to our stores and customers – come rain or shine or even snow – is one of the most vital parts of any supermarket business. This degree programme will ensure that we can develop the best managers for the weekly challenge of managing a supply chain that serves 11.5 million customers every week."

Director of the Logistics Institute, Professor David Grant, said: "We are delighted that Morrisons has chosen us to deliver on this programme.

"The Logistics Institute has worked hard to ensure that the programme is challenging but balanced, with plenty of support for students and good progression routes to a full degree should the students wish to continue.

"It is our belief that the chosen students will learn and progress rapidly on the programme and become a real asset to the Morrisons brand in the future."