Operations Graduate Trainee - Anwick, Ashbourne, Grantham

Pilgrim'S Europe; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Pilgrim's Europe offers an 18-month Operations Leadership Graduate Trainee programme with three structured six-month rotations across poultry and foodservice units. You join on day one with a permanent contract and an accelerated leadership pathway, including ILM development and mentoring.

You will rotate between Anwick, Ashbourne and Grantham to learn operations, run the line and lead teams, building readiness for your first supervisory role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2:2 degree in any discipline or Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA).
• Demonstrated attitude, determination and willingness to learn.
• Motivation to work hands-on in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Skills

Motivation

Resilience

Hands-on

Ownership

Education

2:2 Degree or Higher Level Apprenticeship

Job description

Operations Leadership Graduate Trainee

Start Date: Monday 13 September 2027

Applications Close: 13th of January 2027

Triple Award-Winning Graduate & Training Programme

Lead People. Drive Performance. Build a Career That Lasts. Operations is where everything comes together.

Every product we make, every customer we serve and every improvement we deliver relies on exceptional operational teams. If you're ambitious, hands-on and motivated to build a long-term career, our Operations Leadership Graduate Programme will give you the experience, support and development needed to succeed.

Unlike many graduate schemes, you'll join us on a permanent contract from Day One, with a clear pathway into operational leadership.

Your Rotation Journey

Over 18 months, you'll complete three structured six-month rotations designed to build your knowledge, broaden your experience and prepare you for your first Operational Team Leader or Supervisor role.

Rotation 1: September - February - Anwick - Poultry Business Unit

Learn the Operation

Build a strong understanding of manufacturing, safety, quality, production processes and operational performance.

Rotation 2: March - August - Ashbourne - Poultry Business Unit

Run the Line

Develop your problem-solving, decision-making and continuous improvement skills while supporting operational delivery.

Rotation 3: September - February - Grantham - Foodservice Business Unit

Lead the Team

Build the confidence and capability to supervise teams, drive performance and prepare for your first operational leadership role.

Why Choose Our Award-Winning Programme?

Permanent contract from Day One

Competitive starting salary

• Three-week immersive onboarding experience with your graduate and placement cohort
• Accredited Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) development
• Dedicated mentoring and coaching support
• Exposure to senior leaders and our Executive Leadership Team
• Executive-sponsored business improvement projects
• A thriving graduate community and support network
• Networking, development and celebration events
• Opportunity to apply for a fully funded Mini MBA scholarship
• Clear progression beyond the programme

Designed for 18 months. Built for a career.

What Happens After the Programme?

Upon successful completion, you'll progress into a role such as:

• Operational Team Leader
• Production Team Leader
• Production Supervisor
• Area Leader
• Group Leader
• Production Shift Manager

With continued development and support, your career pathway could include:

Operational Team Leader → Production Shift Manager → Factory Manager → Operations Manager → Site Director

The programme isn't the finish line. It's the starting point of a career.

Who We're Looking For

• We're looking for people with potential, attitude and determination.
• You might be right for this programme if you:
• Have achieved, or are on track to achieve, a minimum 2:2 degree in any discipline or a Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA)
• Are motivated, resilient and eager to learn
• Enjoy working with people and building relationships
• Want hands-on experience and aren't afraid to roll up your sleeves
• Thrive in fast-paced environments
• Take ownership and show initiative
• Have the grit and determination to build a rewarding career
• Are willing and able to complete all three rotations
• Hold a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Have the right to work in the UK (sponsorship is not available)

Relocation Support

Temporary relocation support is available and will be discussed during the offer process.