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- Tasks: Join a dynamic graduate scheme in the food and fresh produce industry, gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: MDS is a leading organisation in food and agriculture, dedicated to nurturing future leaders.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, relocation allowance, mentoring, and a Level 5 qualification.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while fast-tracking your career with expert guidance and diverse experiences.
- Qualifications: Open to driven graduates ready to step into leadership roles across various sectors.
- Other info: Applications are open year-round; join a network of over 500 successful alumni.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 28000 £ per year.
Kick-start your career in the food and fresh produce industry with MDS. Applications now open for our Spring 2026 intake.
Looking for a fast-track route into leadership and management? The MDS graduate scheme offers driven graduates the opportunity to step straight into real-world roles across the food, fresh produce, agriculture and horticulture sectors. From day one, you’ll receive structured training, a full salary and expert guidance from our team, empowering you to take charge of your success.
Over two years, you’ll work in up to four secondments (each lasting 6-12 months) within some of the UK’s leading food and agriculture businesses - our Members. These secondments will give you hands-on experience across a variety of disciplines; you might find yourself coordinating a harvest with a major grower in one secondment, and then leading a business-critical project with a national retailer in the next.
Wherever you go, you’ll be making a real impact - our Trainees are known for delivering results and driving innovation.
Why choose MDS?
- Gain a Level 5 Leadership and Management qualification, accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
- Be employed by MDS, with a salary of £26,000 in year one, rising to £28,000 in year two
- Relocation allowance of up to £1000 per year
- Benefit from mentoring and coaching to help you reach your full potential
- Join a network of over 500 MDS alumni, many now in senior roles across the industry
- Benefit from excellent career prospects - 100% of trainees to date have received a job offer upon completing the programme
Ready to apply? MDS recruits over 60 graduates each year, with programme intakes in April and October. Applications are open year-round via our website, and we review candidates on a rolling basis.
Contact Detail:
MDS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Scheme - Spring 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Research the food and fresh produce industry thoroughly. Understanding current trends, challenges, and innovations will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the sector.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in the industry. Attend relevant events or connect on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights and potentially get referrals that could boost your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational interview questions by thinking of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. This will help you articulate your fit for the programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on MDS and its members. Knowing their values, recent projects, and contributions to the industry can help you tailor your discussions and show that you're a great match for their culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Scheme - Spring 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the MDS Graduate Scheme and its requirements. Familiarise yourself with the food and fresh produce industry, as well as the specific skills and experiences that MDS values in candidates.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that align with the responsibilities of the graduate scheme. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your application stands out.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for the food and agriculture sectors and explain why you are a great fit for the MDS Graduate Scheme. Be sure to mention any relevant experiences and how they have prepared you for this opportunity.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in leadership roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at MDS
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about MDS and its role in the food and fresh produce industry. Understanding their values, mission, and recent projects will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting relevant experiences from your studies or previous roles.
✨Show Enthusiasm for the Industry
Demonstrate your passion for the food and agriculture sectors during the interview. Discuss any relevant experiences, such as internships or projects, and express your eagerness to contribute to innovation and results within the industry.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the training process, potential secondments, or the company culture. This shows your engagement and helps you determine if MDS is the right fit for you.
