MDS Pathways: Business & Marketing for Agri-Food Careers
David Foster joined MDS in 2019 after graduating from the University of Lincoln. David is in his final MDS secondment, working with fresh produce business, Worldwide Fruit, as a Compliance Technologist. We spoke to the group 46 Trainee on how he has been able to utilise the skills he developed on his Business and Marketing degree to support Member businesses and the wider industry.
What made you decide to study Business & Marketing at university?
A Business and Marketing degree offers a diverse range of modules from behavioural psychology to financial forecasting, with an element of creativity and design. The degree offered a great combination of subjects that I was passionate about at school.
What made you decide to apply to the MDS graduate scheme?
I had not wanted to narrow down which career path to take while I was still studying for my degree. When I discovered the MDS graduate scheme, I saw an amazing opportunity to spend two years testing myself in different roles and businesses to support the industry while finding my best fit.
How have you utilised the skills developed on your degree to support Member businesses and the wider industry?
One of the ways I have supported MDS Member businesses through utilising the e-commerce and website building skills I developed on my degree. I studied an e-commerce module, and the final outcome was to produce a user-friendly e-commerce website. Since joining MDS, I have made two websites in separate secondments.
Why is the food and fresh produce industry such a great career opportunity?
As I have come to learn, the fresh produce industry is both fast-paced and consistently evolving, which creates exciting and challenging roles. The industry is also vital in ensuring food security for future generations. If you want to challenge yourself while making a positive difference, I highly recommend a fresh produce career.
You don’t need to have experience in food to kick-start your career in fresh produce. MDS are looking for hard-working, can-do Trainees with a passion for supporting the industry. Do you think you might be up for the challenge? Sign up for our virtual graduate open day to take part in two free CV boosting management workshops and receive a certificate upon completion to show potential employers. Standout candidates will even have the opportunity to fast-track through our recruitment process! Sign up now via this LINK.