MDS is the UK’s foremost food industry management training provider. 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.

Fast-track your career in the food and fresh produce industry with MDS. Apply now for our Spring 2025 or October 2025 intake and gain unique practical experience and coaching, empowering you to lead the future of the industry.

The MDS Graduate program stands out from the rest. Designed for university leavers with leadership potential, it challenges from the start. Trainees develop their leadership skills in roles with real responsibility in several different companies during the two-year programme. At the same time, you will work towards a Level 5 Leadership and Management qualification, Operations and Departmental Manager, accredited by the Chartered Management Institute.

MDS Members are industry-leading businesses and represent all aspects of the food, fresh produce, horticulture and agriculture supply chain, from growers to supermarkets. During your two years at MDS, you will undertake at least three placements of 6 – 12 months in Member companies, giving you the broadest possible opportunity and experience. This allows you to explore your strengths, motivation and ideal fit without making a long-term commitment to one role or business.

You will be given time off by your placement to attend the modular training necessary to achieve our formal leadership qualification specific to the food industry. 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 should expect to relocate for each new placement. The roles available cover the full range of disciplines, from marketing to engineering, operations to HR, logistics to business planning. You may find that you spend six months running a project in a food processing plant and then move to a grower organising harvesting and analysis. What you can be sure of is that whichever roles you undertake, you will be expected to deliver results: MDS trainees have a reputation for achieving objectives through creative problem-solving.

For full details see download.

To find out more, come and talk to us at the Agriculture and Environment Careers Fair on 31st October, or in the Atrium cafe on Friday 1st November!