We're probably the biggest name you've never heard of. You've almost certainly eaten our food - you just didn't realize it! As global leaders in the fresh prepared food industry with over 16,000 employees, we create innovative products, including meals, soups, dips, salads, desserts, pizzas, and bread for customers including Tesco, M&S, Sainsbury's and Waitrose in the UK.
Proud to be a Bakkavor Graduate
Find out what our fantastic graduate programme is all about by hearing from Nicola, Matt and James, who have completed the HR, Manufacturing and Technical programmes respectfully, and discuss the support they’ve received, development opportunities available and why they’re proud to work at Bakkavor.
Programme Highlights:
Leadership Development: Build skills to manage teams, uphold operational excellence, and ensure food safety and health & safety standards.
Early Responsibility: Take on supervisory roles from the start, with opportunities to manage and develop high-performing teams.
Comprehensive Exposure: Gain experience across various food manufacturing sectors, learning about factory operations and people management.
Career Growth: With dedication and development, aim for a Factory or Operations Manager role within 5-7 years.
We’re committed to supporting your journey and helping you achieve your full potential in a rewarding career.
About you -
We seek aspiring individuals eager to build a career in Food Manufacturing and Operations, with aspirations to become an Operational Leader. You should be curious, willing to question norms, and adaptable. At Bakkavor, innovation drives us, so staying current with food trends and industry news is essential.
To be eligible for the Manufacturing Programme, you must meet the following criteria:
Degree: Achieved or expected to achieve at least a 2:2+ honours degree in any discipline.
Experience: At least three months of relevant work experience.
Work Eligibility: Right to work in the UK for a minimum of 3 years from September 2025.
Motivation: A clear commitment to advancing your career in the food industry.
Flexibility: Willingness to complete three 12-month placements at different locations across the UK (we will consider your preferences).
Cultural Fit: Alignment with Bakkavor’s values and a strong fit for our organisation.
As a participant in the Manufacturing Programme, you will receive extensive support and opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge:
Support & Development Network:
Dedicated Champion: A key contact for your functional Programme.
Mentor: Guidance and support throughout your development.
Cohort Experience: Join up to 20 other graduates and connect with a broad network of alumni.
Line Manager: Regular performance reviews and guidance to develop your skills and knowledge.
Training & Development Opportunities:
Leadership Training: Specialised events to enhance your management skills.
Workshops: Programme workshops and exposure to various functions.
Rotational Placements: Gain experience through diverse placements.
Further Development: Opportunities for Apprenticeship Qualifications after the Programme.
Career Progression:
Pathway to Leadership: This Programme is a stepping stone to senior management roles. With Bakkavor's extensive network, we'll help you identify and pursue the right career opportunities for your growth.
Proud to be Bakkavor
At Bakkavor, we have pride. And purpose. From our Icelandic origins, we have grown to be the leading provider of fresh prepared food in the UK. And we continue to expand, in the US and China. Our world is fast-paced, exciting, and energetic. And that’s just how we like it. We have drive. Ambition. Motivation. We are food heroes, who keep the supply chain moving despite challenging times. We work hard. We are resilient. We solve problems together. And we deliver for our customers. Our passion brings joy through the food we produce – and the communities we work in. Our values are extremely important to us; they drive the way we do business – they are what make Bakkavor different from everyone else.
Why join us?
If you share our passion for great food and our strong values, then this company is for you! We have a diverse range of career opportunities and programmes available for you to kick start your career and make a real impact in the food industry.
Benefits!
Pension Scheme
Relocation Financial Assistance (For each graduate placement - to be reimbursed Oct 25)
London placements will receive an additional allowance for living costs
Additional Holiday purchase scheme (25 days' holiday as standard)
Access to employee benefits
Relocation payment
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