HSE Graduate School of Business and X5 Group Launch a Renewed Master’s Program
B2C Business Management: Technologies and Innovations will become the first specialized master’s program aimed at training leaders in retail and e-commerce. The curriculum, shaped around current trends, is based on three key pillars: customer experience, new technologies, and organizational and operational innovations. Courses offered include Data Science, Business Analytics, Digital Platforms, Digital Marketing, and Customer Experience Management in an Omnichannel Environment.
The program is built on the “experience first” approach, combining academic depth with practical expertise. Courses are taught by faculty members from HSE’s Graduate School of Business and by invited industry practitioners holding executive positions in retail. Top managers from X5 Group are actively involved, delivering special courses, lectures, master classes, and organizing internships — providing students with first-hand knowledge.
The program is practice-oriented, focused on solving real business cases and challenges. Students will learn specific methodologies for working with the consumer sector, omnichannel business, and modern retail, while developing strategic thinking and leadership skills. Graduates are in high demand among leading companies in retail, e-commerce, financial services, and FMCG sectors, often stepping into leadership roles. The program is also ideal for entrepreneurs and experienced retail professionals looking to adopt innovative approaches and advance their careers.
“Modern retail is all about speed, adaptability, technology, and innovation. Russia is no longer just following global trends — we’re setting them by creating unique digital services and the best customer experience in the world. Young professionals are increasingly choosing retail: last year alone, the number of X5 employees aged 18 to 24 grew by 12%, now totaling over 43,000. That’s because the industry offers vast opportunities for growth — from applying machine learning and AI tools to managing complex operations and systems. In this joint program with HSE, we’ve brought together our experience, expertise, and accumulated knowledge. Students will gain insights that leading retailers — especially X5 as an industry leader — have developed over the years. At the same time, we’re deeply invested in young talent and committed to supporting their development from the very beginning,” — said Vladimir Salakhutdinov, Chair of the Academic Council of the Program, First Deputy CEO of X5 Group.
Academic Supervisor of the Master’s Program, Professor of Practice at HSE Graduate School of Business
“We’ve updated the structure of the joint master’s program with X5 Group, placing greater emphasis on project-based learning. Consulting projects, group assignments, and internships will help students build a strong portfolio over two years — one that supports career advancement or launching their own ventures. Modern teaching methods, elective courses, and extracurricular activities will help students develop essential management competencies and skills. X5 Group’s involvement ensures not only the relevance of the education received, but also student integration into the professional community through guest lectures, site visits, and roundtables.”
Applications for the 2025 intake will be accepted from June 19 to August 15. This year, 63 seats are available for students from Russia and one for international applicants. Top students will be eligible for scholarships from X5 Group.