Procurement Apprentice - Level 3 Business Admin and Level 4 Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship

As a Procurement Apprentice, you will become a valued member of our UK centralised procurement team, working at the very heart of supply chain operations.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Hands-on experience in tactical buying and procurement
• Support cost-saving initiatives and efficient purchasing decisions
• Exposure to supplier management and maintaining positive supplier relationships
• Training in core procurement processes and procedures
• Experience in purchase order creation and management
• Developing customer service skills by supporting internal stakeholders
• Building confidence in problem-solving within supply chain operations
• Experience in contract administration and the basics of procurement law
• Collaboration with a centralised UK team on supply chain activities
• Support in developing skills in responsible and sustainable procurement
• Introduction to risk identification and management in the procurement context
• Real prospects for growth and development within the procurement profession

What You Will Learn

Throughout your apprenticeship, you will develop knowledge and skills in:

• Tactical buying, negotiation, and supplier relationship management to ensure value and compliance for the business
• Creating and managing purchase orders efficiently
• Solving day-to-day supply chain challenges
• Delivering excellent service to internal customers
• Working closely with colleagues across functions to collaborate effectively
• Developing skills in contract administration and risk awareness
• Promoting ethical and sustainable procurement practices
• Acquiring practical experience and building a strong foundation for a career in procurement
• Accessing opportunities for progression and professional growth within the procurement profession

Apprenticeship Programme

You will study towards a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship, before progressing onto a Level 4 Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship with The Apprentice Academy.

The programme is delivered through a virtual delivery model, combining:

• Live taught lessons
• Online learning resources
• Self-directed learning activities

Programme Structure

As a Procurement Apprentice, you will enrol onto a 3-year programme:

• Years 1: Complete a Level 3 in Business Administration with the Apprentice Academy. Delivered via a virtual learning module, this part of the programme will introduce you to the business in the context of procurement.
• Years 2 and 3: Progress onto a Level 4 Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship with the same training provider. Upon completion, you will hold both the Level 3 and 4 apprenticeship qualification, plus your CIPS Level 4.

You will be based in our centralised procurement team in the UK, working alongside experienced professionals. Throughout the programme, you will receive on-the-job training, coaching, and support to develop your capabilities as a Tactical Buyer. Thales will support your professional qualifications as part of your development, and you’ll have access to a range of learning and development resources.

Entry Requirements

To apply, you will need:

• 2 A Levels or equivalent Grade C or above in any subject, or equivalent Level 3 qualification such as BTEC Diploma or T Level
• 5 GCSEs Grade 9-4 (A-C) including Maths and English

Please note that applicants who already hold a relevant degree will not be eligible for this programme.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of £24,000 per annum
• Performance-related pay uplifts
• Holiday entitlement of 201 hours a year (plus a company day and bank holidays)
• Contributory Company Pension
• Health Care Cash Plan
• Hybrid/flexible working options
• Employee assistance programme
• Learning and development support
• Employee discounts and wellbeing initiatives
• Life Cover
• 80 Hours Volunteering per year (first two years)

Recruitment Process

1. Apply Online: Submit your application online to register your interest.
2. Upload Your CV
3. Check your emails for the invitation to apply.
4. Complete Your Application: Follow the link provided in the email.
5. Complete Online Tests
6. Virtual Assessment Centre: Includes group exercises and competency-based interviews.
7. Job Offer: Successful candidates will receive a job offer.

Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February - May 2027. Induction week for all Graduates and Apprentices will take place from Monday 6 September - Friday 10 September 2027.

Security Requirements

Because of the work we do at Thales, all roles are subject to security requirements. To be considered for this position, you must have the permanent right to work in the UK and be able to successfully complete and maintain UK Government security checks, including Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) screening and Security Clearance (SC). To be eligible for SC clearance, you will typically need to have lived in the UK continuously for the last five years.