Marc Bolland, the former chief executive of Marks and Spencer, will advise the UK government on youth unemployment following a damning review that flagged risks of a "lost generation" without intervention.
Bolland spent over a decade leading M&S before stepping down in 2022, overseeing the retailer through significant digital transformation and pandemic disruption. His appointment reflects the government's push to bring private sector expertise into policy on youth employment.
The advisory role comes after a review highlighted alarming trends among young people not in education, employment, or training. The "NEET" population has grown, with economic headwinds and skills gaps keeping many locked out of work. Government data shows this cohort faces higher risks of long-term joblessness, mental health struggles, and reduced lifetime earnings.
Bolland's retail background carries relevance here. Retail and hospitality have traditionally served as entry points for young workers, though both sectors face labour shortages and wage pressures post-pandemic. His experience navigating workforce challenges at a major employer could shape apprenticeship frameworks, employer engagement strategies, or work experience programs.
The appointment signals the government's strategy of tapping business leaders to design employment initiatives rather than relying solely on in-house civil service expertise. Similar moves have brought corporate figures into education and skills policy under recent administrations.
Success will hinge on whether recommendations translate into concrete programs and employer buy-in. Retailers and hospitality chains will need incentives to hire and train young people, particularly those furthest from the job market. Bolland's credibility with large employers could unlock funding and participation that government alone cannot secure.