Cambridge Network launches graduate scheme to develop future leaders

The programme has been developed in direct response to feedback from members and the wider Cambridge business community who identified the need to better engage and support early-career employees with strong leadership potential.

Unlike traditional graduate recruitment programmes, the Cambridge Network scheme works with graduates already employed within participating organisations. This ensures candidates are embedded in their company’s culture, have already demonstrated potential and can apply new skills to real business challenges from day one.

Programme highlights include:-

• Ten monthly in-person workshops on leadership, communication, project management, resilience, strategy, and more
• A Level 5 ILM qualification in Leadership and Management
• Mentoring from experienced professionals outside the graduate’s own organisation
• Access to a cross-sector professional network across the Cambridge ecosystem

The scheme is said to be particularly suited to organisations wishing to invest in a small number of hand-picked employees, without the cost or complexity of running an in-house programme.

Jennifer Turley, Head of Learning and Development at Cambridge Network, said: "I came through a graduate scheme and, in a full circle moment years later, I found myself managing cohorts and facilitating sessions on that same programme.

"I know first-hand how powerful these schemes can be and the impact they can have on your entire career. When we designed the Cambridge Network Graduate Scheme, my goal was to give others that same chance – to be supported, challenged, and encouraged from the start, so they can become confident, capable leaders in the future.”

John Gourd, CEO of Cambridge Network, added: "In response to our members’ needs, we’ve developed a range of resources to support their sustainable growth, including our learning services. The new graduate scheme is a key part of this offering and we’re excited to help graduates take the next step in their careers."

Applications for the first 2026 cohort is now open and closes on 23 December 2025.

Training will begin in January 2026 and run until December 2026. Each cohort is limited to 12 places and Cambridge Network members receive a significant discount.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.cambridgenetwork.co.uk/learning/graduate-scheme or contact: Jennifer Turley – Head of Learning and Development: jennifer.turley@cambridgenetwork.co.uk