How to apply?

Applications are welcomed from graduates with a minimum of 4-6 years’ post-graduate work experience and an interest in business development, sustainability and the food industry. The programme aims to recruit high potential, ambitious and motivated professionals who have aspirations to become future leaders in the Irish food industry.

There are up to 10 places available on this programme and participants will be selected following a rigorous and exacting recruitment process. 

Programme Application Journey

1. Eligibility: Consider if you have a passion for, and wish to pursue a career sustainability within the Irish Food, Drink and Horticulture Industry. You should understand Bord Bia's mission and purpose. A minimum 2:1 degree with 4-6 years post-graduate professional experience is also required.
2. Apply: An online application should be completed as part of the application process. This includes; general questions about yourself, copy of CV, a professional photo, University degree Certificate and transcripts in addition to 3 short 100 word essay-style questions.
   Applications Open: 5.00pm GMT April 4th 2025
   Applications Close: 9.00am GMT 18th August 2025
   • Interviews:
   • Round 1
   • September 16 / 17/ 18
   • September 23/ 24/ 25
   • Round 2
   • October 7/ 8/ 9
3. Online Assessments:
   • Psychometrics - Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete up to 3 psychometrics during the application process. These can be shared with you upon request after the selection process has ended. Successful candidates will also be shared their psychometric results as part of their Professional and Career Development module during the programme.
4. Assessment Centre: Assessment centre will take place in Autumn 2025
   • First Round Interview (online via Zoom) - Tasked to deliver a short presentation on a pre-assigned brief, followed by a short Q&A, before a structured competency-based interview with a panel. Interview panellists consist of Bord Bia, University College Dublin and Food/Drink Industry representatives.
     • Written Language Assessment - If you have been shortlisted for your level of fluency in a specific language you will be tasked with a short written exercise before your interview.
   • Second Round Interview (in-person) - Further shortlisted candidates may be asked to attend and in-person second round interview in Autumn 2025. Exact details will be provided at this stage of the assessment centre.
5. Offer: Successful candidates will be sent an offer by November and will be required to sign a learning assignment internship agreement committing to the full-time 22-month programme starting spring 2026.

To be eligible for the programme, applicants must meet the following entry requirements: