JD Sports to host largest-ever careers event in Manchester

JD Sports is gearing up to host its biggest-ever JD UP careers event at Manchester Central Convention Complex on 27 and 28 February.

The experience will see JD engage with over 6,000 young people as it looks to provide the next generation with real teachings into the retail sector.

Students from 51 local schools will be immersed in an environment “where learning meets hands-on experience”, designed to inspire, inform and equip attendees with the tools they need to thrive in retail.

There will be immersive zones, including a mock JD store, as well as a JD Gyms set up and various interactive spaces providing students with behind the scenes insights into operations of retail departments including buying, merchandising, marketing and supply chain.

There will also be brand new interactive career zones that will also focus on finance, legal and group transformation.

JD executives, including CEO Régis Schultz, will take to the stage to share their career journeys, alongside appearances from industry influencers and other special guests.

Since launching in 2024, JD UP has seen almost 60% of attending students express interest in a JD career. Taking previous events in Manchester and London last year into account, this latest event will bring total participants to over 10,000, building on JD Foundation’s mission of “empowering young people to reach their unlimited potential”.

Nicola Kowalczuk, Chief People Officer at JD, said: “JD UP is about more than just exploring jobs – it’s about opening doors, building confidence, and giving young people the tools to go after a career they are passionate about. With over 60% of JD’s workforce under 25, we are not just investing in the next generation – we’re shaping it.

“Building on the resounding success of JD UP events across the UK, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback received, we are now looking further afield with plans to take the initiative into new markets – kicking off with Spain and the US. The launch of a new virtual work experience programme in April 2025 will also extend our reach and provide career resources and insights to young people everywhere.”

What JD UP attendees can expect: 

• Zone 1: A behind the scenes look at JD, exploring retail, buying and merchandising, the studio team, and even a DJ booth to connect students with JD’s creative minds and brand experts.
• Zone 2: A new area launching this year, which will see participants get the lowdown on new career opportunities in finance, legal, and group transformation.
• People Stand: An opportunity to discover JD’s vision, values, and culture, plus hands-on experiences like HGV simulators showcasing careers in transport and distribution.
• Design the duffel: Students will be encouraged to unleash their creativity by designing their own JD duffle bag.
• Motivational Speakers: Students will get to hear from figures such as leadership across the firm, including CEO Régis Schultz and Chair Andy Higginson, as well as social media personalities like Angry Ginge sharing how perseverance and passion leads to success.