Promoting the 2022 Graduate Programme, were Majella Darcy, Chief People Officer and John Jordan, Chief Executive of Ornua. (Picture: Marc O'Sullivan)

Ornua, owner of Kerrygold, Ireland’s only billion-euro food brand, has launched its search for the organisation’s next generation of leaders through its 2022 Graduate Programme.

The 18-month programme will offers graduates a chance to build a range of business skills and gain valuable experience in one of Ireland’s foremost food companies. Headquartered in Dublin, Ornua is Ireland’s largest exporter of Irish dairy products.

15 exceptional applicants are now being sought for roles across business functions – from Sales and Marketing, New Product Development (NPD), Finance, Commercial, ICT, and Insights – across eight countries and four continents. Nine positions will be based internationally in Dubai, Germany, Nigeria, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US (Chicago). 

The industry leading programme includes structured rotations with exposure to multiple disciplines and business units, and training including classroom and self-directed learning modules. In addition to formal training, candidates on the programme will be individually mentored by a member of Ornua’s senior management team. Several of the co-op’s current senior leaders entered the business through the programme, including John Jordan, CEO of Ornua.

Commenting on the programme, Majella Darcy, Chief People Officer, Ornua commented: “This is an exciting opportunity for 15 driven and ambitious graduates to begin fulfilling careers here at Ornua. For over 55 years, Ornua has been providing global opportunities and dynamic careers to its proud and passionate team who bring the unique taste of grass-fed Irish dairy to the world.

“We are delighted to offer these 15 places on our industry-leading programme, which can lead to vibrant and varied careers in Ireland and around the world.”

Applications for the Graduate Programme are already being accepted (visit earlycareers.ornua.com) and will close on 22nd October, 2021, with successful applicants taking up their position in Autumn of 2022. At the end of the programme there is an opportunity of a permanent position for all graduates. 

PAID INTERNSHIP

From January 2022, Ornua will also be introducing a paid internship programme. The nine-month Grassroots Internship programme will place high potential undergraduate students into roles to prepare them for future success.

The structured learning and development programme will also include an Ornua mentor who can offer expertise and guidance, and a presentation with Ornua’s senior leadership team.