Encouraging new and diverse talent

We want to inspire the next generation of farming talent.

As one of the biggest supporters of Irish and British agriculture, we want to inspire the next generation of farming talent. We know that many young people today may not realise the variety of roles the UK&I food or farming industry can offer. We want to challenge those misperceptions through programmes that showcase the real benefits of a career in this space.  
 
That’s why we’ve offered undergraduates a 12-month placement opportunity through our Progressive Young Farmer programme since 2012. It offers the opportunity to learn vital industry skills and gain practical experience and mentoring with the businesses, farmers and stakeholders that supply us with beef, chicken, potatoes, pork, dairy or eggs. The programme is just one of the ways we are working towards our goal to support over 100 young people from non-traditional farming backgrounds kick-start careers in the food and farming sector by 2025. Of the 71 young people placed so far, 62% were female and 25% were from non-farming backgrounds.

For current McDonald’s Crew members, a new Restaurant to Corporate Bridge Programme will also give them the opportunity to work across the supply chain.

To find out more or to apply, click here.

The people behind our Plan

"No two days as a Progressive Young Farmer are the same. I spend my time learning about how beef is processed, helping out on farms and traveling to different industry events. This has given me a really good understanding of the whole beef supply chain.

I’ve had the opportunity to attend many different industry events such as Oxford Farming Conference and Groundswell, where I’ve been able to meet and talk to lots of industry experts. I’ve learned so much from them about how the industry works and how we can steer it towards a better future for all of us.

One of the best parts about the placement is getting to know so many other inspiring young people with the same passion for agriculture. It has really opened my eyes to the talent we have in our industry and the value we can all provide, whether we have an agricultural background or not.

I’ve also had the opportunity to work on some sustainability projects and to visit lots of our hard-working farmer suppliers to see the great work they are already doing on their farms.

I would highly recommend the McDonald’s Progressive Young Farmers placement to anyone who is interested in learning more about the agriculture industry."

Nathan McLure, 2024 Progressive Young Farmer, on a placement with beef supplier, Dawn Meats.

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