Job Details

Expires in 7 days

Overview

At Sysco, food is at the centre of everything they do. As a global leader in foodservice wholesale distribution, they operate with over 76,000 colleagues across 10 countries worldwide. Driven by their purpose to connect the world to share food and care for one another, they are proud to supply the expertise, products and partnerships that power every corner of the industry – from independent high street cafes to large-scale corporate customers, and from hospitals and schools to pubs, restaurants and fine dining establishments across the UK.

Competitive

Full time, Apprenticeship

(Start date Tuesday 1 September 2026)

Sysco in Ashford.

Key information

The Merchandising Graduate Programme is an opportunity for candidates to help shape how Sysco sources, selects and delivers the food products that chefs and caterers rely on every day, while building their career in a fast-paced, commercially driven environment. Graduates are invited to join and play a part in bringing exceptional food to the tables and communities Sysco serves.

Participants will gain hands-on experience across the full procurement lifecycle, working directly with expert buyers and category managers, often face-to-face with Sysco’s suppliers. This is a role for straight talkers: people who can build strong relationships, have honest conversations, and negotiate confidently to get deals over the line.

About the role

Graduates will be managing competing priorities and real commercial pressures, developing the judgement and interpersonal skills needed to balance value, quality, service, and customer needs.

Sysco seeks curious minds and strategic thinkers who enjoy solving problems through data, partnerships, and smart, decisive action. For those ready to unlock their potential, influence outcomes, and help deliver the products that power customers’ success, this is the place for them.

The journey starts here – and Sysco invites graduates to make it extraordinary.

The Sysco GB Graduate Programme is designed to give participants a dynamic and inspiring start to their career. Graduates will gain hands-on experience, take part in structured learning, and receive personalised mentorship to help them transition into the workplace and develop the skills and confidence needed to grow as future leaders. Through key business rotations, participants will work on real projects, collaborate with various teams, and gain valuable exposure to senior leaders.

Graduates can expect

A structured learning and development plan to build both technical and professional capabilities.
Mentorship from experienced professionals who will support, guide, and challenge them throughout the programme.
Business placements that provide experience and exposure to build skills within Finance.
Networking opportunities with graduates, colleagues, and industry partners to help grow their professional network.
Continued professional development including workshops, training sessions, and access to learning resources to accelerate growth.
Exposure to senior leaders providing valuable insights and helping build their profile across the organisation.
Clear opportunities for career progression and continued development opportunities post-programme.

Requirements

Minimum 2:2 bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
Strong interest in pursuing a career in Merchandising/Procurement
Genuine passion for food
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independentlyAnalytical and problem-solving abilities
Proactive, adaptable, and eager to learn
Initiative and a growth mindset

Apply now