Lakeland Dairies |
A career with Lakeland Dairies offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the future growth and development of one of Ireland’s most successful and forward looking co-operatives.
Proud Roots, Bright Futures with Lakeland Dairies – Graduate Programme 2026
Looking to kick-start your career with purpose, progression, and impact? At Lakeland Dairies, we offer ambitious graduates the opportunity to grow with one of Ireland’s most successful and future-focused co-operatives.
Why Choose Lakeland Dairies?
Joining Lakeland Dairies means becoming part of a business that’s innovative, sustainable, and values driven. We’re proud to support over 3,200 family farms across 16 counties, processing more than 2 billion litres of milk annually. Our products reach over 100 countries, and we work with some of the world’s leading food and nutrition brands.
Our network of 3200 farming families and the people of Lakeland Dairies are the lifeblood of our co-operative. Their commitment to sustainable practices, innovation, and excellence in producing the highest quality products are the cornerstone of our success and in ensuring a sustainable future for all.
That pursuit of excellence and commitment to sustainability are values we seek in those that have a desire to work with us - those that have ‘Proud Roots, Bright Futures’ and want to grow with Lakeland Dairies.
Lakeland Dairies Graduate Programme Brochure 2026
What’s on Offer:
1. Real Impact from Day One
You won’t be stuck on the sidelines. From the start, you’ll be contributing to meaningful projects that support the growth of one of Ireland’s largest and most progressive dairy co-operatives. Your ideas and input will be valued — and visible. With agreed objectives and the support to realise them your impact will be valued every step of the way.
2. Structured Development with Variety
The two-year rotational programme gives you exposure to different areas of the business, helping you build a broad skillset and discover where your strengths and interests lie. It’s a great way to explore your potential before specialising.
3. Purpose-Driven Work
Lakeland Dairies is committed to sustainability, supporting over 3,200 family farms and investing in greener technologies. You’ll be part of a business that’s actively shaping a more sustainable future for food and farming.
4. A Launchpad for Long-Term Growth
Many of our graduates go on to build long and successful careers with us. Whether you’re passionate about food science, engineering, business, or IT, this programme is a springboard to leadership and specialist roles. Our graduates have gone on to build exciting careers across the business — from Food Scientists leading product innovation or large-scale operations, to Engineers managing large-scale automation projects, and IT professionals driving digital transformation. Whether your passion lies in sustainability, technology, operations, or agri-business, this programme is your launchpad to a meaningful and rewarding career.
5. Values That Matter
Our culture is built on integrity, innovation, collaboration, and excellence. You’ll be joining a team that genuinely cares — about its people, its communities, and its impact.
Your Graduate Journey at Lakeland Dairies
From day one, you’ll be part of a structured two-year programme designed to give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in a fast-paced, global agri-food business.
Year 1: Explore & Build Foundations
- Rotational Placements: You’ll rotate through key departments aligned to your discipline (e.g. operations, quality, supply chain, engineering, IT, or sales & marketing), gaining a 360° view of how the business works.
- Onboarding & Induction: You’ll meet your cohort, learn about our co-operative values, and get introduced to our sustainability goals and hybrid working culture.
- Operations Training: Get hands-on experience at the core of our business, gaining real insight into our day-to-day operations and how we deliver excellence at every stage.
- Mentorship: You’ll be paired with an experienced mentor who will support your development and help you navigate your early career.
Year 2: Deepen Expertise & Lead Projects
- Specialisation: You’ll begin to focus on a specific area of interest, taking on more responsibility and contributing to strategic projects.
- Professional Qualification: You’ll work toward an accredited qualification to complement your hands-on learning.
- Leadership Exposure: You’ll have opportunities to present to senior leaders, contribute to innovation initiatives, and shape real business outcomes.
Throughout the Programme
- Hybrid Working: Enjoy the flexibility of a blended work model that supports collaboration and work-life balance.
- Sustainability in Action: Be part of a business that’s actively reducing its environmental footprint and supporting local farming communities.
- Connection & Culture: Take part in team-building events, graduate networking sessions, and cross-functional learning opportunities.
Be Part of Something Bigger
We’re looking for graduates in:
- Food Science and Nutrition
- Engineering
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Sales and Marketing
- IT
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