MDS is the UK’s foremost provider of management training for the food industry. Founded in 1986 as a not-for-profit membership organisation, we create a pipeline of well trained, capable leaders to work in all aspects of the food supply chain.
Our membership includes some of the industry’s leading businesses: forward thinking companies committed to developing high-calibre individuals. MDS offers Members the opportunity to build their own leadership pipeline whilst contributing to the success of the industry. MDS Members provide opportunities for our Trainees to learn ‘on the job’ in roles with real responsibility, often managing specific projects or filling seasonal peaks. Our close collaboration with Members ensures a broad range of suitable secondments as well as allowing ongoing input into the development of the programmes we offer.
MDS attracts a diverse range of candidates for our training programmes, from those early in their careers, either graduates or non-graduates with a couple of years under their belts, to more experienced people looking for a career change or returning to work after a break. The food supply chain offers a wide variety of opportunities and MDS equips people to make the most of them.
Each MDS Trainee completes an industry specific qualification alongside a series of challenging secondments with Member companies. At the end of the programmes, which last either 18 months or 2 years, provide Members the opportunity to recruit Trainees.
MDS plays an important part in promoting the food supply chain as an exciting career choice. We look for the skills and attitudes that meet the needs of this fast-paced industry and each person is carefully mentored to ensure they reach their potential.
Meet the Team
Our Staff
Directors
Meet the MDS directors and find out more
The MDS Board
The Board is made up of an independent Chair and non-executive directors chosen from the membership to best represent the food supply chain.
Paul Willgoss
Paul Willgoss took up the role of Chair of MDS in October 2025, following a 32-year career at M&S, including 17 years as Technical Director. He has extensive experience in technical and commercial roles across the food and farming sector, working with businesses, government and NGOs.
Paul has been instrumental in leading an industry-wide approach to tackling modern slavery, as well as initiatives in sustainability, governance and risk management.