Kepak Operational Graduate Programme - Wales

Kepak Operational Graduate Programme 2026 - Wales

We are seeking to recruit for the 2026 Kepak Operational Graduate Programme in our Kepak Merthyr Site, this is our biggest site, with Beef and Lamb processing, as well as Retail operations onsite. We are looking for Operational Graduates for the Retail side of the site.

Our Operations Graduates will embark on an intensive learning journey within our business, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the entire production process from procurement to sales. This role is designed to develop future leaders in the meat industry, with a strong emphasis on learning the end-to-end process, understanding the value of each step, and mastering the operations that drive our business.

The ultimate goal is for the graduate to be able to articulate the entire process, and to demonstrate this knowledge through presentations and hands‑on experience.

• End-to-End Process Learning:
  Rotate through various operational departments, to gain hands‑on experience of every role and a deep understanding of each stage of the production process.
• Presentation and Reporting:
  At the end of each rotation, present the acquired knowledge and insights to demonstrate an understanding of the operations.
• Operational Involvement:
  Actively participate on the factory floor, learning each work station and the processes involved producing our products.
• People Management:
  Develop skills in managing diverse teams, understanding the dynamics of a labour‑intensive industry, and learning how to effectively communicate and lead in a multicultural environment.
• Continuous Improvement:
  Engage in key projects such as data gathering, writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), process improvement initiatives, and customer‑specific projects to contribute to the overall efficiency of operations.

• Numerical Proficiency:
  Strong aptitude for working with numbers, crucial for understanding the yield, value, and financial aspects of meat processing.
• Work Ethic: A strong work ethic is essential. Demonstrating a background in consistent part‑time work during studies is an advantage.
• Process Management:
  Ability to motivate teams in a labour‑intensive environment, with a focus on maintaining calm and effective communication in high‑pressure situations.
• Problem‑Solving:
  Strong problem‑solving skills, particularly in high‑pressure environments where quick thinking and decision‑making are required.
• Teamwork:
  Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team, whether through sports, work, or academic projects.

• Location:
  
  Full‑time on‑site at our Merthyr Tydfil Factory, with the possibility of travel to other locations for specialised learning.
• Progression:
  The program will involve 90% factory floor experience and 10% office‑based work initially, with a gradual increase in office responsibilities as you progress.
• Assessment:
  You will be assessed through presentations and practical demonstrations of your understanding at each stage of the process. You will also have a Learner Journey to support your progress, this states key competencies that we want you to develop through your programme.

Our Operational Graduate programme allows dynamic, motivated, hardworking, and passionate Graduates an opportunity to start their career with one of the top 100 brands in the UK. The programme lasts 2 years.

• To be fully immersed into our Culture from day 1, working alongside industry experts and Kepak leaders.
• An opportunity to gain in depth knowledge and skill in various Operational departments across the business, with a rotation plan tailored to your development.
• Gain real, hands‑on experience in our manufacturing areas, to understand how our teams come together to create our brilliant products.
• The opportunity to work with the commercial side of the business, through shorter placements, to gain insight into the whole of the business.
• Gain an in depth understanding of our brands and products, and how they are made, and our relationships with customers and consumers.
• To learn key aspects of our business, whilst you develop your skills and knowledge.
• The…