The MDS Operations and Development scheme opens up opportunities in the food industry to people of all ages and backgrounds. If you have worked for at least two years and can demonstrate relevant experience and transferrable skills, then you could join our 18-month programme to start a new career in food manufacturing and logistics.
Like all MDS programmes, the Operations and Development scheme is challenging yet rewarding. Successful candidates are seconded to member companies for two placements, one for a year, the other for six months. MDS members represent all aspects of the food, fresh produce, horticulture and agriculture supply chain, from growers to supermarkets. Your two placements will be in very different roles and companies, giving you a good feel for how the food industry operates.
During this period, you will be given time off to attend the modular training necessary to achieve a formal Level 3 qualification. This is an integral part of the MDS programme and provides the theory to support the practical experience gained from your placements. Throughout the programme, you will also be supported with mentoring to help you reach your potential.
As our members are based around the UK (and some overseas) you are likely to be asked to relocate for each placement. MDS members provide roles with real responsibility and accountability, which build capability and confidence.
At the end of the 18-month programme, you will be given the opportunity (in consultation with us) to stay with MDS to complete further training, again combining work placements with a qualification. Our members will also be invited to make offers of permanent roles to trainees, so you may be able to choose to continue training or accept a permanent position.
When you have finished training, we anticipate that every individual will secure employment, as they do on our long-established graduate programme. MDS alumni now number over 500 and hold senior positions in many leading businesses. We keep in touch with our alumni through regular updates and networking opportunities.
Do you qualify?
To be considered for MDS, you will need to demonstrate that you have relevant experience and transferrable skills. These do not have to be gained in an academic institution, they can be through work or other activities you have undertaken. The important thing is that we can see your potential.
To apply, you must be prepared and able to relocate every six months. Each application is reviewed independently, and the offer of employment will be subject to appropriate right-to-work checks. A range of our Member companies are based in rural locations some Trainees may be required to travel, it is the Trainee’s responsibility to ensure they have the appropriate means to travel for work.
This is a fast-paced industry in which salaries are rising quickly. Trainees are employed by MDS at £26,000 per annum, rising to £28,000 after the first year with an additional tax-free £500 relocation allowance per secondment move. If you are hard-working and motivated, then a career in food industry operations could be very rewarding.#
