Sara Lee Launches Returnships @ Sara LeeSM

Company offers professionals unique, flexible opportunities to re-enter workplace

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sara Lee Corp. (NYSE: SLE) today announced the launch of the Returnships @ Sara Lee^SM program. Designed as internships for experienced professionals, this unique program aims to provide flexible opportunities for mid-career individuals to re-enter the workforce following an extended leave.

“At Sara Lee, we are committed to the recruitment and retention of high-quality talented professionals”

Sara Lee created this program to appeal to professionals who are interested in rejoining the corporate world and contributing their expertise. At the same time, participants will be able to assess the potential for a permanent position in a flexible work environment. In addition to Returnships @ Sara Lee participants contributing their expertise to the business, Sara Lee will provide relevant business training, including industry, job-specific and technology education.

“At Sara Lee, we are committed to the recruitment and retention of high-quality talented professionals,” said Brenda C. Barnes, chairman and chief executive officer of Sara Lee Corp. “Returnships @ Sara Lee provides a win-win situation for candidates and for our company by offering flexible work arrangements on a trial basis, while at the same time allowing Sara Lee to tap into a deep talent pool of under-utilized professionals.”

Sara Lee will be recruiting candidates for positions at its Downers Grove, Ill., headquarters during the fall of 2008 and will implement the program beginning in February 2009. Interested candidates can find more information on Sara Lee’s corporate Web site at www.saralee.com.

About Sara Lee Corporation

Each and every day, Sara Lee (NYSE: SLE) delights millions of consumers and customers around the world. The company has one of the world’s best-loved and leading portfolios with its innovative and trusted food, beverage, household and body care brands, including Ambi Pur, Ball Park, Douwe Egberts, Hillshire Farm, Jimmy Dean, Kiwi, Sanex, Sara Lee and Senseo. Collectively, these brands generate more than $13 billion in annual net sales covering approximately 200 countries. The Sara Lee community consists of 44,000 employees worldwide. Please visit www.saralee.com for the latest news and in-depth information about Sara Lee and its brands.