Procurement Apprentice
If you want the chance to develop your commercial business and buying skills whilst making a real difference to the lives of the people around you why not pursue an exciting career path in procurement? We have an apprenticeship opportunity available within the Council’s Procurement Team. Whether you’re at the start of your career or looking for a career change you will join a fast paced and agile environment supporting procurement activity across a broad range of service areas.
The successful candidate will provide general procurement support to various stakeholders within the busy Corporate Procurement Service team based at the Council House in Solihull. The role will include assistance in the management of all steps in the procurement process: user needs analysis; market research; sourcing activity; structure of tenders; market engagement; tender evaluation; negotiation; and contractual matters.
The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate a keen interest in procurement; the ability to work to time sensitive deadlines with attention to detail; be able to work well on their own as well as part of a team; possess good communication and interpersonal skills; and have high levels of integrity, honesty, reliability and confidentiality.
You will work in a supported learning environment to develop the skills and knowledge required for your apprenticeship. We will assist you to complete a Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply apprenticeship to help you to progress in your future career.
If you are a dynamic individual who is flexible, organised, motivated and ready for an exciting and challenging role this is the opportunity for you.
Our previous Procurement Apprentice (recently promoted to Category Manager) had this to say:
“The apprenticeship offered numerous opportunities to develop my skills. From working on diverse projects to engaging in various hands-on tasks, I was constantly challenged and motivated to improve. Throughout the apprenticeship, the support and guidance from the team were invaluable. This supportive environment fostered my growth and helped me overcome any challenges I faced. This position is designed to welcome beginners, making it accessible to those eager to learn and grow. The learning curve might seem steep at first, but the structured training and supportive environment makes it manageable, exciting and incredibly rewarding. As a former Procurement Apprentice reflecting on my experience, I can wholeheartedly recommend this role. The abundance of learning opportunities makes it an ideal starting point for a successful career in procurement. Supported by a dedicated and encouraging team, this apprenticeship is the perfect challenge for ambitious professionals looking to make a significant impact in the field.”
You need a minimum of GCSE Grades C / 4 or above in Maths and English. In addition, you will need a minimum of 2 A-Levels Grades C / 4 or above or equivalent (provisional predicted grades are acceptable at application stage).
The benefits of an apprenticeship are:
- learn while you work
- develop practical skills and knowledge
- gain job specific qualifications
- learn from experienced procurement professionals
- possible progression into permanent employment and further learning and development
We can offer:
- high quality training, development and work experience
- recognised apprenticeship qualification
- paid annual leave and flexible working hours
- a good support network throughout your qualification
For further information about the role please refer to the job description, person specification. You may also want to visit https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/commercial-procurement-and-supply-formerly-public-sector-commercial-professional/
Solihull Council has a responsibility for, and a commitment to, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Please be aware, only application forms completed online will be accepted. We will not accept CV’s or Word application forms.
Closing Date: Sunday 14 July 2024:
Interview Date: Monday 22 July and Tuesday 23 July 2024
Location: Council House, Manor Square, Solihull B91 3QB
Attached documents
JDPS.pdf