Overview
Kepak Operational Rotational Graduate Programme 2026 - England
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Role purpose
Our Operations Graduates will embark on an intensive learning journey within our Rustlers business at the Kepak Kirkham site, home to Rustlers, the UK’s number 1 micro snacking brand. The programme is designed to develop future leaders in the meat industry, with a strong emphasis on learning the end-to-end process from procurement to sales, and on articulating this process through presentations and hands-on experience.
Key Responsibilities
* 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 knowledge and insights to demonstrate understanding of operations.
* Operational involvement: Actively participate on the factory floor, learning each workstation and the processes involved in producing our products.
* People management: Develop skills in managing diverse teams and leading in a multicultural environment.
* Continuous improvement: Contribute to key projects such as data gathering, writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), process improvement initiatives, and customer-specific projects.
Key Competencies
* Numerical proficiency: Aptitude for working with numbers related to yield, value, and financial aspects of meat processing.
* Work ethic: A strong work ethic and a history of consistent part-time work during studies are advantageous.
* Process management: Ability to motivate teams in a labour-intensive environment and maintain calm, clear communication in high-pressure situations.
* Problem-solving: Ability to think quickly and make decisions in high-pressure environments.
* Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team across different contexts.
Other role information
* Location: Full-time on-site at the Kirkham Factory, with potential travel to other sites for specialised learning.
* Progression: Programme involves approximately 90% factory floor experience and 10% office-based work initially, with a gradual increase in office responsibilities over time.
* Assessment: Periodic presentations and practical demonstrations, supported by a Learner Journey detailing key competencies to develop.
What you can expect
* Immersive culture from day 1, working with industry experts and Kepak leaders.
* In-depth knowledge and skills across operational departments with a tailored rotation plan.
* Hands-on experience in manufacturing to understand how teams create products.
* Opportunities to work with the commercial side of the business through shorter placements.
* Deep understanding of our brands, products, and customer relationships.
* Development of personal and professional skills through projects, tasks, and a structured learner journey.
* A dedicated mentor and development program to support progression into a suitable role.
Start date
September 7th 2026
Starting salary
£28,000 with an up to £1,500 increase at the start of Year 2 to £29,500
Role location
Kepak Kirkham, Kirkham, Lancashire, England
Who are we looking for?
Hardworking and ambitious graduates who want to learn and grow in a challenging, fast-paced environment by performing real roles during rotations. You must be mobile and willing to travel to develop at sites across the UK and Ireland. Flexibility with working patterns is required to experience different parts of manufacturing.
Education & Skills
* Educational background: Open to graduates from all disciplines.
* Communication skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for working with people from diverse backgrounds.
Personal attributes
* Driven and ambitious: Desire to build a long-term career in the meat industry with aspirations to become a manager in operations.
* Eager to learn: Proactive approach to learning and seeking information.
* Resilience: Comfortable with challenging environments, including exposure to abattoirs and carcass locations.
Core Values
* Responsibility – Ability to work on your own initiative and take accountability.
* Ambition – Willingness to challenge yourself to be the best and to succeed.
* Passion for Food – A genuine passion for the industry.
* Teamwork – Ability to build positive relationships across cultures and career stages.
Benefits
* Employee discount scheme
* Service-related annual leave
* Educational assistance/L&D
* Discounted meat products
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee assistance programme
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