Recruitment for the annual marketing fellowship, run by Bord Bia and the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, has begun and there are 20 vacancies available.

The programme is now in its eighth year and merges academic learning with practical experience to provide those with an interest in working in the food sector with a pathway into it.

The successful candidates will work on behalf of Irish food and drink companies abroad to identify opportunities for these companies in new markets, while completing an MSc (Master’s) in International Marketing Practice at the same time.

The programme is fully funded by Bord Bia, with participants receiving a bursary of €22,800 in addition to having their tuition fees (for the Master’s) paid. Successful applicants in previous years have worked in countries such as Britain, the USA, the UAE, Germany, France, China, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Australia, Spain, Italy, India, Russia and Poland.

This programme has significantly benefited the food industry as, over the last eight years, more than 650 business development projects have been completed on behalf of Irish food and drink companies in markets all over the world.

Aidan Cotter, CEO, Bord Bia said: “This programme is contributing very positively to Ireland’s export success, as it allows Irish food and drink companies access to new markets through a dedicated resource, who can gather local insights to grow exports.

“It has the potential to contribute anything from €10-€20 million in additional sales for Irish food and drink companies over a three-year period. We are looking for some of Ireland’s most ambitious, energetic and motivated individuals to represent us on the world stage and make a real difference to the future of our food and drink industry.”

Keogh’s Crisps have worked with eight different fellows in the last four years and say the marketing fellowship is pivotal in developing existing relationships and identifying new distributors in foreign markets.

“The fellowship has given us a deep understanding of the crisps and snacks markets in these markets and, as a result, we have a better understanding of the relevant channels for our products, and the various routes to market,” says Gareth Murphy.

Those interested in applying for the fellowship should be graduates with at least two to three years work experience and an interest in business development and sales.

Applications can be made by visiting www.smurfitschool.ie/bordbia. The closing date is 5 March 2016.