The MarketPlace grocery store chain plans to significantly expand a leadership programme that has already benefited more than 80 Bermudian employees.

Launched in 2021, the Pathways to Leadership Programme is designed to foster local talent and develop the next generation of Bermudian retail leaders.

Fifteen employees have either completed it or are enrolled in this year’s programme.

Aside from aiming to increase participation by 50 per cent in the coming year, The MarketPlace is exploring partnerships with local educational institutions to provide academic credits for programme participants.

Seth Stutzman, president of The MarketPlace group of stores, said: “Our Pathways to Leadership Programme represents a unique opportunity for our local Bermudian associates who aspire to leadership roles and career advancement within the grocery and retail industry.

“We are thrilled about enhancing our role in supporting and developing our home-grown talents and wish them all the best success.”

The programme, which takes between one and three years to complete, covers various aspects of retail management, including inventory management, customer service, operations and leadership skills.

It is open to Bermudian employees or spouses of Bermudians.

Programme highlights include:

Comprehensive training: the programme offers hands-on experience across various departments, including produce, meat, bakery and warehouse management. It provides participants with a holistic understanding of supermarket operations

Personalised career paths: each participant receives a tailored leadership pathway based on their experience and interests, ensuring optimal personal and professional growth

Structured advancement: the programme features clearly defined stages, from department lead positions to store management roles, offering a clear trajectory for career progression

Three employees in the current cohort, the third, have hailed the career growth opportunities offered by the scheme.

Michael Cann has advanced from store manager to group produce director, Tahjae Welch has secured an assistant store manager role, and Zoila Johnston has been promoted from customer service manager to assistant store manager.

Mr Cann said: “The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been instrumental in my career growth at The MarketPlace. It provided me with a comprehensive understanding of our operations across different departments, which has been invaluable in my new role overseeing multiple produce sections. This programme truly invests in Bermudian talent and opens doors for career advancement that I never thought possible in the retail industry.”

Mr Welch said: “The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been transformative for my career. It provided me with the skills, knowledge and confidence to take on a leadership role. I'm grateful for the opportunity and excited about my future with The MarketPlace.”

Ms Johnston said: “The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been a game-changer for my career at The MarketPlace. It provided me with a unique opportunity to expand my skills beyond customer service and gain a comprehensive understanding of store operations. The hands-on experience and mentorship I received have been invaluable.

“This programme truly demonstrates The MarketPlace's commitment to nurturing local talent and providing real career growth opportunities. I'm excited to use my enhanced skills to ensure our customers continue to receive the exceptional service they deserve.”