Kerrygold owner Ornua has announced the launch of its 2027 graduate programme.

The two-year programme provides graduates with the opportunity to begin their professional careers by working in Ornua's consumer goods and dairy business, "bringing the very best of premium dairy to international markets".

Ornua is seeking applications for a range of positions across the business, including corporate procurement, information technology (IT), human resources, internal auditing, sales, quality, communications, and operations, with roles offered in Ireland and Dubai.

According to Ornua, the successful applicants will join a company "with a strong co-operative culture where they can learn, grow and make their mark by growing the Irish dairy story".

Ornua said its graduate programme builds "a strong pipeline of future leaders while ensuring skilled colleagues can continue to develop rewarding, long-term careers".

The successful candidates will benefit from structured position rotations and a "comprehensive induction into the business", with classroom and self-directed learning modules in the areas of teamwork, self-awareness, leadership, and communication skills.

Graduates will also receive mentorship from senior leaders and a support network of current and former programme graduates.

Commenting on the programme, Ornua chief executive officer Conor Galvin said: "This programme, which has been running for over a decade in its current form, has been a hugely successful and vibrant part of our emerging talent development strategy.

"The graduate programme provides Ornua with a platform to connect with emerging talent and build future leaders that will shape the direction of our business as we continue to grow," Galvin added.

Jane Tuohy, an Ornua account manager who herself came through the graduate programme, said: "I joined the Ornua graduate programme in 2019 and my time with the business has given me incredible opportunities to learn, grow and build a rewarding career.

"Over the last seven years, I've worked across procurement and commercial roles, built strong relationships with our Member co-operatives and customers, and gained valuable industry experience," she added.

"Their guidance, along with the opportunity to take on new challenges, has encouraged me to grow my career with Ornua," Tuohy said.