Frequently asked questions

What does it actually feel like to work at Kerry Dairy Ireland?

It’s a fast-moving, purpose-driven environment. You’ll be close to real decisions, working with people who genuinely care about the quality of what they produce and the impact it has — on consumers, on farm families, and on the environment. It’s not a place where you’ll coast. But it is a place where your work matters from day one.

How big is the team?

We’re a team of over 1,500 people across our manufacturing sites, Farm & Home stores, and head office in Tralee. Big enough to offer real career mobility; close-knit enough that you’ll know the people you work with.

What are your core values?

Everything we do is shaped by five values: Courage, Enterprising Spirit, Ownership, Inclusiveness, and Open-mindedness. They’re not slogans — they reflect how we actually expect people to show up and work with each other.

What benefits do you offer?

We offer an annually reviewed competitive salary, one paid volunteering day per year, access to a comprehensive wellbeing toolkit, family-friendly policies, and an employee recognition programme. Specific benefits may vary by role and location.

Is sustainability genuinely part of the culture, or just marketing?

It’s genuine. We’ve been building a culture of sustainability for over 30 years. In 2024, we became the first company to achieve Stage 5 verification on the Sustainable Dairy Partnership platform — the highest level available. Our sustainability work spans how we work with farm suppliers, how we run our manufacturing sites, and the goals we set for the future.

How does the application process work?

Most roles follow a similar path: CV screening, followed by one or more interviews, which may include a competency-based conversation, a technical discussion, or a task depending on the role. The process takes place online initially, with later stages typically in person. Your recruiter will keep you informed of what to expect at each step.

Can I apply for more than one role at a time?

Yes, you can apply for more than one role, provided they’re genuinely relevant to your background and interests. We’d encourage you to be considered in your applications rather than applying broadly – it helps us understand what you’re really looking for.

I applied before and wasn’t successful. Can I apply again?

Yes. We’d suggest waiting at least six months before reapplying for the same role, to give yourself time to develop further. For different roles, you’re welcome to apply at any time.

I don’t have much experience. Should I still apply?

Absolutely. Many of our team members joined us early in their careers. What we look for is motivation, a willingness to learn, and the right attitude – experience can be built; those qualities are harder to teach.

I don’t see an open role that fits my background right now. What should I do?

We’d recommend checking back regularly, as new roles are added on an ongoing basis. At present we only recruit for open positions, so we’re not able to accept speculative applications — but following us on LinkedIn is the best way to stay up to date.

Will I receive feedback if my application is unsuccessful?

We aim to respond to all applicants. Detailed feedback is typically available to candidates who reach the interview stage. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we’re not always able to provide individual feedback at the CV screening stage, but we appreciate every application and will let you know either way.

Do you require accommodations during the application process?

We’re committed to an inclusive recruitment process. If you require any adjustments or accommodations at any stage — whether due to a disability, neurodivergence, or any other reason — please let your recruiter know and we’ll do everything we can to support you. This has no bearing on the outcome of your application.

What graduate programmes do you offer?

Our graduate programmes are structured multi-placement rotations designed to build your leadership capability and give you a broad understanding of the business. Depending on your discipline, you’ll rotate through different teams and sites, with mentorship from experienced professionals throughout. We recruit graduates across food science, engineering, agribusiness, supply chain, finance, and commercial functions.

How long do the graduate programmes last?

Our programmes typically run for two years, with placements of varying lengths depending on the business area. At the end of the programme, graduates are supported into permanent roles within the business.

What internship opportunities are available?

We offer internships across a range of business areas, typically over the summer period or as part of a sandwich year placement. Internships are paid and are designed to give you real, hands-on experience rather than observation. Strong performers are often considered for our graduate programme.

What apprenticeship programmes do you offer?

We run apprenticeships in a number of craft and technical disciplines across our manufacturing sites. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning with formal education, and are a direct route into a skilled career in dairy manufacturing. Full details of current apprenticeship openings are available in the jobs listings.

I’m a student — when should I apply?

For our graduate programme, we typically recruit in the autumn for the following summer start. For internships, we recommend applying early in the spring semester. Apprenticeship intakes vary — check the listings for current openings and deadlines.

Where are your sites located?

Our main sites in the Republic of Ireland are in Tralee (HQ), Listowel, Charleville, Newmarket, and Farranfore. In Northern Ireland and the UK, we have operations in Portadown, Coleraine, and Ossett. We also operate 29 Farm & Home stores across Munster and Connacht.

Is remote working available?

It depends on the role. Manufacturing, laboratory, agribusiness, and retail roles are by nature site-based. For office-based and commercial roles, we operate a hybrid model where flexibility is agreed at team level. Remote and hybrid arrangements are always specified in the job description.

Do you offer relocation support?

For certain senior or specialist roles, relocation support may be available. This is agreed on a case-by-case basis — if it’s relevant to your situation, please discuss this with your recruiter during the process.