Supply Chain Apprenticeship - Autumn 2027

MDS; Greater Lincolnshire; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid apprenticeship

Hands-on work experience

Job summary

MDS is offering a two-year early careers programme in the UK food industry. You’ll join a paid 18-month supply chain apprenticeship with three 8-month placements across different businesses, gaining real responsibility and ongoing support.

You will learn on the job, building practical skills in production, logistics and operations while earning a salary from day one. The programme leads to a recognised qualification and long‑term career opportunities.

Qualifications

• 18+ by October 2027
• A levels or equivalent
• Full UK driving licence
• Right to work in the UK

Responsibilities

• Get involved in food production, logistics or operations
• Learn how products move from farm to shelf
• Support quality, technical or supply chain teams
• Work with trainers and colleagues to grow your skills

Skills

Enthusiasm

Commitment

Willingness to learn

Education

A levels or equivalent

Job description

Ready to start your career - without going to university? If you’re leaving school or college and want to jump straight into a paid, full time job with training included, this programme could be the perfect first step. This is your chance to earn from day one, gain real experience, and work towards a recognised qualification - all while discovering what kind of career suits you best.

What’s this programme all about?

This two year early careers programme is designed to help you build confidence, skills and experience in the food, fresh produce and agriculture industry - one of the UK’s most important sectors. You’ll take part in:

• A paid 18 month supply chain apprenticeship
• Three 8 month placements with different businesses
• Hands on work, real responsibility and plenty of support along the way

This isn’t a classroom only course. You’ll be learning on the job, working with experienced teams, and building skills that employers value.

What could you be doing day to day?

• Getting involved in food production, logistics or operations
• Learning how products move from farm to shelf
• Supporting quality, technical or supply chain teams
• Working with people who’ll train you, support you and help you grow

You’ll be trusted with real tasks and encouraged to get involved - not just watch from the sidelines.

Why choose this programme?

• £22,000 salary from day one
• A recognised supply chain qualification
• Real work experience across different roles and businesses
• Support, training and mentoring throughout the programme
• The chance to discover what you’re good at and what you enjoy
• No student debt - just practical experience and career skills

Many people go on to permanent roles with their placement companies or progress into further training and leadership programmes once they finish.

Who this programme is for

• Are 18 or over by October 2027
• Have completed, or are on track to complete, A levels or equivalent
• Want a hands on start to your working life
• Are motivated, reliable and keen to learn
• Like the idea of building a long term career rather than just getting a job

You don’t need any previous experience in food or agriculture - we’re looking for enthusiasm, commitment and potential, not a perfect CV.

What you’ll need

• A full UK driving licence (essential) This is required because placements are based across rural locations and involve travelling between sites.
• The right to work in the UK

Programme overview

• Length: Two years
• Placements: Three 8 month placements
• Apprenticeship: 18 month supply chain apprenticeship included
• Location: Lincolnshire or West Sussex (regional placements)
• Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

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