The Role and Department
The University's Procurement Service is offering a development opportunity to gain procurement (and general business) knowledge, experience and qualification with the prospect of permanent employment upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
The Trainee Procurement Administrative Assistant will undertake on the job training and a development plan will be created in conjunction with the successful candidate to take into account their individual needs. Following successful completion of the first part of the necessary on the job training and development plan (one year) the post-holder will move to Grade 3. The Trainee Procurement Administrative Assistant is to embark on the Charted Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) qualification (starting level determined by their experience and qualifications). Upon successful completion of the procurement qualification and all on the job training the post-holder will move to a Grade 4 role. This plan will be regularly reviewed and form the basis of the assessment to move to the Grade 4 role. The development plan may be extended if the University considers it necessary.
The Procurement Service forms part of the University's Professional Services function and delivers a centralised procurement and purchasing activity to the entire organisation. The department is currently split between the Purchasing Team, who are responsible for the day-to- day tactical procurement, and the Category Team, who are responsible for strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management. The department is responsible for the procurement of all goods and services for the University and driving value for money, using strategic sourcing strategies within a category management framework.
Professional Services are expected to move into Boldon House (adjacent to the Arnison Centre) commencing Spring 2025, this will be a flagship building devoted to becoming the University's first ever professional service hub. The building is being designed with flexible hybrid working in mind and will fully support the University's Hybrid Working Policy. The Procurement Service are ear-marked to be one of the first occupants of this building.
How to Apply
We prefer to receive applications online. To progress to the assessment stage, candidates must evidence each of the essential criteria required for the role in the person specification above. Where there are desirable criteria we would also urge you to provide any relevant evidence.
While some criteria will be considered at the shortlisting stage, other criteria may be considered later in the assessment process, such as questions at interview.
We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates.
Who to contact for more information
If you would like to have a chat or ask any questions about the role, Liam Glasper would be happy to speak to you. You can contact Liam by emailing
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About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to
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