MDS Ltd.

MDS is the UK’s foremost provider of management training for the food and fresh produce industry. Established in 1986 as a not-for-profit membership organisation, we have supported more than 2,000 people to build successful careers in one of the most vital sectors of the economy. 

We work closely with over 60 member companies across the food supply chain, from innovative start-ups and specialist growers to some of the UK’s biggest household names. Together, we provide apprenticeship programmes that meet the needs of today’s industry while preparing a pipeline of leaders for tomorrow.  

Our mission is simple: to attract, train and develop talented individuals who will shape the future of food. 

Practical training with real impact
An apprenticeship with MDS is built around responsibility from day one. Trainees rotate across multiple secondments (placements) with our member companies, gaining hands-on experience in different business areas such as: 

• Operations and supply chain management 

• Technical and quality assurance 

• Agronomy and field-based roles 

• Commercial and sales 

• Marketing and communications 

• HR and people development 

This structure means every apprentice graduates with a deep understanding of the food industry and a strong portfolio of achievements. Many of our alumni now hold senior management positions in the sector, leading businesses that feed the nation and drive innovation. 

Learning and qualifications
Alongside practical placements, apprentices work towards recognised management and leadership qualifications. This combination of real-world responsibility and formal training ensures our graduates are both experienced and accredited, ready to step into leadership roles with confidence. 

In addition, our dedicated People Development team provides ongoing mentoring, coaching and skills workshops. This personal support builds resilience, adaptability and leadership qualities that extend far beyond the programme itself. 

Contribution to industry
The UK food and fresh produce industry employs millions of people and contributes billions to the national economy. It also faces significant challenges, from climate change and sustainability, to feeding a growing population. MDS apprentices are part of the solution. 

By bringing fresh ideas, energy and ambition, our trainees help businesses adapt, innovate and grow. Whether it’s improving supply chain efficiency, supporting the development of new products, or ensuring high standards of food safety and quality, MDS apprentices make a measurable impact during their placements. 

Accessibility and opportunities
Our programmes are open to people from a wide range of backgrounds. You don’t need to have studied agriculture or food; we welcome applicants with diverse experiences and interests. 

What matters most is potential: the curiosity to learn, the drive to take on challenges, and the ambition to lead. 

Apprentices benefit from: 

• Variety – working with multiple employers across different business functions. 

• Support – mentoring, coaching and access to our trainee community. 

• Progression – industry-recognised qualifications and a proven career pathway. 

• Purpose – being part of an industry that matters to everyone, every day. 

Quality and recognition
As a trusted apprenticeship provider with almost 40 years of experience, MDS has a proven track record of delivering results for both apprentices and employers. Our collaborative approach ensures that training is always aligned to the real needs of the sector, giving our graduates an edge in the job market. 

Our reputation is reflected in the success of our alumni, many of whom now hold senior positions in global food businesses. Their achievements highlight the strength of the MDS approach: combining on-the-job responsibility, structured learning, and personal development. 

Shaping future leaders
At MDS, we believe that an apprenticeship should do more than start a career, it should unlock leadership potential. Our ethos is grounded in three principles: learn, lead, and grow. 

• Learn through diverse placements and practical responsibility. 

• Lead by developing the confidence and skills to manage people and projects. 

• Grow into a professional who can make a lasting contribution to the industry. 

Food is one of the most important sectors of our economy and our society. By joining MDS, apprentices become part of an industry that touches every household and shapes the future of how we live. 

Find out more and apply at www.mds-ltd.co.uk