MDS Graduate Management Trainee

MDS is a unique partnership of companies that aims to equip young people with the experience, training and mind-set so that they have the confidence and ability to rapidly become senior business leaders within the industry.

Since it was founded more than 30 years ago, it has established itself as a leading training provider in the fresh food, produce, horticultural and agricultural industry. Its two year graduate scheme is renowned within the industry and many of today's major industry figures were once MDS trainees.


What we offer

- Two year graduate scheme involving 4 different placements in 4 different businesses
- Valuable experience within a fast-paced and innovative industry
- Roles with real responsibility
- Opportunity to relocate to roles overseas
- 27 formal training days from Cranfield School of Management and other leading industry professionals
- Access to an extensive network of companies and industry contacts
- Personal mentoring from MDS staff and secondment managers at all placements
- Continued support throughout the programme
- Starting salary of £20,000 increasing to £21,250 in the second year
- Excellent and diverse career prospects. Farm Manager, Agronomist, Operations Manager or Procurement Manager: the opportunities are endless.

Person requirements

- Strong interpersonal skills who are capable of inspiring and leading others
- Resilient and flexible candidates who are prepared to relocate every six months
- A passion for pursuing a career in the food industry
- Highly motivated individuals with a thirst for the challenge of a rapidly evolving industry

Qualifications and experience requirements

- A 2.1 degree or above, 2.2 may be considered
- All degree disciplines considered
- Land-based, food related, life sciences, business management, marketing or language degrees preferred
- No specific experience is required as we are more interested in your potential to develop into the leaders of tomorrow.

Company benefits 

- 28 days holiday
- Workplace pension scheme
- Outstanding training and experience


More about the Industry

Ever wondered how your chips made it to your plate? Or how blueberries are transported half way across the world to end up on supermarket shelves? The food and fresh produce industry is the driving force behind these supply chains. Often overshadowed by supermarkets and food manufacturers, the food and fresh produce industry is like the behind the scenes production team of a Hollywood film: you know it is there but what it actually does is a mystery to many. The truth is that it is varied, wide-reaching and, most importantly, absolutely fundamental to the survival of modern societies.

The industry is a buzzing assortment of procurement, new product development, agronomy, finance, engineering, production, commercial, HR and many, many more opportunities. The MDS graduate scheme is the gateway to this exciting industry.