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Commercial Fast Stream

Civil Service
Wide

Expected closing date: Thursday, 5 November 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • 3.5-year programme developing commercial skills across three government departments.
  • Study for and gain a CIPS qualification, with potential for MCIPS membership.
  • Gain experience negotiating large contracts and contributing to public services.
  • Locations can vary across multiple UK regions; some relocation may be required.
  • Requires a 2:2 or higher in any degree subject (existing civil servants exempt).

About the Role

This is a 3.5-year programme designed to develop key commercial skills and build essential networks across three different government departments.

What You'll Do

  • Negotiate contracts ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of pounds.
  • Contribute to projects such as building schools, railways, roads, and hospitals.
  • Support the delivery of essential frontline public services.
  • Gain experience in optimizing supplier relationships and contributing to major procurement initiatives.
  • Study for a globally recognised Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) qualification.
  • Undertake a fully funded CIPS Corporate Award Practitioner and Advanced Practitioner programme.
  • Learn about public sector specific learning needs, driving sustainable, transparent, and ethical commercial practices.
  • Develop a breadth and depth of knowledge and experience in areas such as procurement, strategy, policy development, contract and supplier management.

Scheme Structure

  • Year 1: A 12-month commercial role within a government department.
  • Year 2: A placement in a different department with more challenging projects. Some may have a 6-month Secondment outside of Central Government.
  • Year 3 onwards: A third government department for up to 18 months, focusing on leadership skills and challenging tasks. The final 6 months are for end-of-scheme assessments.

Qualifications Gained

  • Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) qualification.
  • Potential for full membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) after 3 years' practical experience and successful completion of the programme.

Benefits

  • Civil Service Pension Scheme
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Season ticket loans
  • Sports and social activities
  • Childcare assistance

Locations

Postings can vary and have included regions such as East Midlands, London, North West, Scotland, South East, West Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber. Some individuals may need to move location. Final decisions on postings support business needs, and Fast Streamers cannot choose their department or specific role.