MDS

The food and fresh produce industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, and MDS develops talented people to become future leaders in this innovative, diverse and sustainable industry.

MDS is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1986 by a group of forward-thinking growers concerned about the shortage of skilled managers within the industry. Today, our membership includes over 60 businesses across the food supply chain and continues to grow year on year. Through collaboration with these industry-leading companies, MDS has helped fast-track the careers of more than 600 graduates.

Discover Our Diverse Members

From farm to fork, our members represent every part of the supply chain, including growers, manufacturers, logistics providers and retailers. This breadth gives MDS participants a unique insight into how the food industry operates and where their strengths lie.

MDS offers structured development programmes designed to launch careers in the food supply chain.

The MDS Graduate Scheme is a two-year programme made up of up to four rotational placements with different Member businesses. MDS matches Trainees to placements to provide the broadest possible experience across the industry, helping them explore their strengths and interests while developing leadership skills. Alongside their placements, Trainees work towards an industry-specific leadership qualification tailored to the food and agriculture sector.

New for 2026, the MDS School Leavers Programme offers an alternative to university for those looking to start a career in the food industry straight from school or college. This paid apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with leading businesses with the opportunity to study for a recognised supply chain qualification, giving participants practical skills and industry knowledge from day one.

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MDS plays a pivotal role in developing future leaders in the agri-food industry. It offers Trainees exposure to a wide range of industry sectors, broadens their perspective and places a strong emphasis on personal and professional development.

Oliver Watts, Produce World

Across both programmes, development is supported by mentoring, training and coaching. Each Trainee is matched with an experienced mentor who provides guidance throughout their journey and helps them reach their full potential.

The impact of the programme is reflected in our results. MDS has a 98% retention rate for those completing the Graduate Scheme, and 100% of Trainees who complete the programme are offered full-time employment within the industry.

Roles are varied and cover all aspects of the food and fresh produce supply chain, below are some examples of secondments:

Commercial

A client/customer facing role, that requires multitasking and a high level of coordination. Developing effective business networks with internal and external stakeholders. Supporting the commercial performance, adhering to processes, handling of data with analysis. Previous secondment roles: Corporate Produce Assistant, Junior Commercial Manager, E-Commerce Growth Executive.

Operations

Plan, coordinate and improve processes across a variety of business functions. High level of technical input, data gathering and reporting that drives growth with strategy support. Previous secondment roles: Operations Supervisor, Site Trainer, Operational Excellence Support.

Procurement

Directly involved in the sourcing and purchasing of products and services. Sourcing suppliers, contract drafting, negotiation and managing suppliers through the whole procurement process. Previous secondment roles: Assistant Procurement Manager, Corporate Produce Assistant.

Project / research / trials

Initiate projects, carry out planning by setting goals and objectives. Track work to be completed, set deadlines and delegate tasks. Implement any necessary changes throughout the process. Recording of data and analysis.
Previous secondment roles: Junior Project Manager, Change Champion, Development Technologist.

Farm

Organising and participating in the daily harvesting and analysis. Implement the monitoring of the UK agronomy/field practices, trials and data collection plan for existing crops and new varieties. Previous secondment roles: Deputy Harvest Manager, Planting Manager, Harvest Planner.

Marketing

Coordination and contribution towards a marketing strategy/campaign. Marketing a product or service. Using a variety of communication platforms internal and external to the business. Previous secondment roles: Digital Marketing, Marketing Officer, Communications Specialist.

Technical

Ensure quality of the product is the correct specification and quality for clients. Following strict food safety requirements and protocol. Monitor staff operations. Previous secondment roles: Quality Control, Fruit Technologist, Quality and Assurance Account Manager.