Overview

Company: Dawn Meats

Job Title: Brighter Futures Graduate Programme 2026

Location: We offer placements at multiple sites across Ireland, including Charleville (Co. Cork), Grannagh (Co. Waterford), Carrolls Cross (Co. Waterford), Rathdowney (Co. Laois), Ballyhaunis (Co. Mayo), Slane (Co. Meath), Kilbeggan (Co. Westmeath), and Kildare (Co. Kildare).

Job type: Graduate Programme (Permanent, Full time)

About Dawn Meats:

Dawn Meats is one of Europe's leading food companies, supplying premium beef and lamb products to customers across retail, foodservice and manufacturing sectors worldwide. With annual revenues of over €4.5 billion, a workforce of 12,000 people, operations in 13 countries and exports to more than 70 markets globally, we are committed to delivering sustainable growth through innovation, quality and people.

As a Graduate, you will join a structured development programme designed to provide real business exposure, professional development and mentoring from experienced leaders. You will work on meaningful projects, contribute to business improvement initiatives and develop the skills needed to become one of our future leaders.

Responsibilities

Experience is the best teacher, which is why at Dawn Meats, you are given real responsibility from the start. Combined with formal training, you will work with passionate, talented people who will provide invaluable training on the job plus:

Dedicated Mentors & First-Class Coaching: Learn directly from industry experts and receive personal guidance to help you reach your goals.
Direct Access to Senior Leaders: Gain insights from the best in the business and influence decisions that shape our future.
Opportunities to undertake assignments, secondments and innovative project work across the business;
Invest in Your Development: Participate in blue-chip residential offsite training and continuous learning programmes
Cross-Functional Experience: Take on assignments, secondments, and innovative projects across different departments and sites.
Opportunity to take part in Partnership with leading Management Development Institutes in Ireland and the UK.
Diverse & Inclusive Community: Join a passionate, multicultural team where your ideas are valued, and your impact is felt.

Graduate opportunities are available across multiple business streams, including:

Operations & Production
Commercial & Planning
Strategic Procurement & Supply Chain
Agriculture & Livestock Procurement
Human Resources
Food Safety & Quality
New Product Development
Accounting & Finance
Engineering
Health, Safety & Environmental

Qualifications

We’re looking for graduates who are eager to learn, driven to succeed, and ready to embrace new challenges. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Working towards achieving a relevant third-level qualification (or recently completed studying)
Strong communication and presentation skills
Attention to detail and problem-solving ability
Proficiency with Microsoft Office
Excellent interpersonal skills and time management
Forward-thinking with an innovative approach to planning

What we offer:

Join a talented and passionate team, with opportunities for career progression and internal growth.
Benefits include a company pension scheme, Bike to Work and Education Support programs, discounted meat purchases, free car parking, and provided safety equipment and workwear.

To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Continue to Application or Login/Register to apply button below.

2027 Graduate Programme - Dawn Meats

Benefits

Job Description