​Fast-Tracking Talent: How MDS Shapes the Next Generation of Food and Agriculture Leaders

In the latest episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Andrew Fitzmaurice spoke with Sapphira Waterson, CEO of MDS (Management Development Services), about the organisation’s unique approach to developing high-calibre graduates for the food and agriculture sector.

From Social Work to CEO

Saffy’s career journey didn’t start in agriculture or food production. With a background in welfare, social work, and probation services, she transitioned into MDS over 20 years ago. Her experience supporting people with transferable skills became a cornerstone of MDS’s philosophy: everyone has potential; they just need the right opportunity.

“You sometimes come in and think that you haven't got the skills, but everyone's got transferable skills.”

The MDS Model

Founded 40 years ago by three farmers, MDS was designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience. Today, the programme places graduates in multiple businesses over a two-year period, exposing them to the full supply chain - from crop production to retail and supporting industries.

Key highlights of the programme:

• Diverse talent: Only around 20% of graduates come from an agricultural background. The rest are from a wide range of degree disciplines.

• Rotational placements: Graduates rotate every six months through different roles and locations, developing resilience, confidence, and practical skills.

• High standards: The assessment centre is rigorous, admitting just 4% of applicants who demonstrate drive, capability, and adaptability.

• Dedicated support: Graduates have personal development officers, secondment managers, and ongoing mentoring and training, including leadership and management apprenticeships.

“You don’t know what you’re good at if you’ve never experienced it,” Saffy explains. “We stretch them, but we don’t break them. That’s what makes them MDS calibre.”

Building the Future

The programme isn’t just about technical skills. Graduates develop life skills, confidence, and commercial curiosity, preparing them to make a tangible impact in the industry. By the end of the programme, they are highly sought-after professionals ready to take on leadership roles across the sector.

“It’s like a five-year fast track in two years. Expectations are higher than for a typical graduate, and they’re paid properly while they learn,” Saffy says.

Evolving for Success

MDS continues to adapt, welcoming candidates from more diverse backgrounds and ensuring that member companies have access to the next generation of talent. Leadership changes, like the appointment of the new chair, Paul, keep the organisation fresh while maintaining the high standards that have defined it for decades.

Key Takeaways

• Talent is everywhere: You don’t need an agricultural degree to succeed in food and agriculture.

• Experience builds capability: Rotational placements develop practical skills and resilience.

• Support is crucial: Mentoring, coaching, and structured feedback ensure graduates reach their potential.

• High standards produce high performers: Rigorous selection ensures that only the most driven, adaptable candidates join the programme.

For employers and graduates alike, MDS is a blueprint for developing future leaders in the food and agriculture sector. With a structured, hands-on, and supportive approach, it’s no wonder that graduates go on to make a real impact in the industry.

​

​