MDS Graduate Scheme Program

The Fresh Produce and Food industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the country and MDS nurtures talented graduates to become future leaders in this innovative, diverse, and sustainable industry.  

MDS is a non-for-profit organisation that was set up in 1986 by a group of forward-thinking growers concerned about the shortage of skilled managers within the industry. Our current membership stands at over 55 businesses which continues to grow year on year. The collaboration of MDS and industry leading businesses has fast-tracked the career of over 500 graduates. 

MDS offers a unique challenge beyond other graduate schemes. The two-year programme is a rotation of four roles in a variety of businesses. MDS represents all aspects of the food, fresh produce, horticulture, and agriculture supply chain, from growers to supermarkets. Follow this link to our website to explore members: https://www.mds-ltd.co.uk/members/ 

MDS is a unique collaboration of industry leading businesses that develops highly motivated and hardworking graduates, who demonstrate strong leadership potential in the Food and Fresh Produce industry. A two-year management graduate scheme to fast-track graduate careers.

MDS offers a unique challenge beyond other graduate schemes. The two-year programme is a rotation of four roles in a variety of businesses. Each member provides two six-month placements a year, and MDS will match trainees to placements to give each person the broadest possible opportunity and experience. This allows trainees to proactively explore their strengths, motivation, and ideal fit without making a long-term commitment to one role or business. 

Roles are varied and cover all aspects of the food and fresh produce supply chain, below are some examples of secondments: 

*Commercial – A client/customer facing role, that requires multitasking and a high level of coordination. Developing effective business networks with internal and external stakeholders. Supporting the commercial performance, adhering to processes, handling of data with analysis. Previous secondment roles: Corporate Produce Assistant, Junior Commercial Manager, E-Commerce Growth Executive. 
*Operations – Plan, coordinate and improve processes across a variety of business functions. High level of technical input, data gathering and reporting that drives growth with strategy support. Previous secondment roles: Operations Supervisor, Site Trainer, Operational Excellence Support. 
*Procurement – Directly involved in the sourcing and purchasing of products and services. Sourcing suppliers, contract drafting, negotiation and managing suppliers through the whole procurement process. Previous secondment roles: Assistant Procurement Manager, Corporate Produce Assistant.
*Project / research / trials – Initiate projects, carry out planning by setting goals and objectives. Track work to be completed, set deadlines and delegate tasks. Implement any necessary changes throughout the process. Recording of data and analysis. Previous secondment roles: Junior Project Manager, Change Champion, Development Technologist. 
*Farm – Organising and participating in the daily harvesting and analysis. Implement the monitoring of the UK agronomy/field practices, plan for existing crops and new varieties.  Previous secondment roles: Deputy Harvest Manger, Planting Manager, Harvest Planner. 
*Marketing – Coordination and contribution towards a marketing strategy/campaign. Marketing a product or service. Using a variety of communication platforms internal and external to the business. Previous secondment roles: Digital Marketing, Marketing Officer, Communications Specialist. 
*Technical – Ensure quality of the product is the correct specification and quality for clients. Following strict food safety requirements and protocol. Monitor staff operations. Previous secondment roles: Quality Control, Fruit Technologist, Quality and Assurance Account Manager. 

MDS is a training and development programme which is inclusive of all degree disciplines and experience. Our trainees demonstrate strong leadership potential and are highly motivated and hardworking. MDS not only offers roles with real responsibility, but a Level 5 qualification accredited by the Chartered Management Institute in Leadership and Management. 

The value of a trainee is emphasised by the support given throughout their development. A trainee has access to an experienced mentor to support all different aspects of the programme and to help trainees reach their full potential. This potential is reflected in recent statics, showing that MDS has a 98% retention rate for trainees completing the graduate scheme and 100% of MDS trainees, who complete the programme, are offered full time employment in the industry.

To be eligible for consideration, you should:  
*Have achieved (or predicted) at least a 2:1 degree in any subject, although in exceptional circumstances we will consider candidates with a 2:2  
*Have a driving licence and use of a car by the time you start MDS 
*Be eligible to work in the UK 
*Be prepared and able to relocate every six months.

Benefits:
* Level 5 qualification accredited by the Chartered Management Institute in Leadership and Management.
* Relocation allowance
* 28 days holiday
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
* Interest free starter loan

How to apply:
We recruit 50+ graduates each year, with cohorts starting in October and April. You can apply at any time, and we interview for positions throughout the year. 

Applications to start in Spring 22 and Autumn 22 are open now.

Click the apply button now!

There are three stages of the application process: 
1) Website Application (30-40 minutes to complete)
2) Telephone Interview
3) Assessment Centre Day