Assistant Commercial Officer, Commercial Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship (Level 4)

What will the apprentice be doing?

As an Assistant CommercialOfficeryou will be assistinginternalcustomers to deliver value effectively and innovatively,and within budget.

Asyouprogress through the apprenticeshipand grow within the roleyou willdevelop the skills to:

• Manage customer queries coming into the team.
• Advise on commercial policies and procedures and provide advice to the business on commercial issues and governance.
• Monitor and update information on commercial and contract management IT systems and conduct regular reviews to ensure that information is stored accurately and is up to date.
• Assist senior Commercial colleagues by providing administrative support on more complex procurements.

You will be exposed to the entire procurement cycle including pre- procurement and early market engagement, general administration tasks, sourcing and contract agreements and supplier and category management.

You will be sitting within the infrastructure category which predominantly covers design, construction and associated civil engineering, including both capital spend and operational maintenance. This category also includes infrastructure related professional services (i.e., cost management and project managers) mechanical & electrical engineering, and specialist services such as mapping and modelling and coastal beach management.

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

The apprenticeship covers elements of business, economics and cost management. You will learn on the job and via online learning and face to face workshops. Successful completion of the apprenticeship will give you the skills and practical experiences needed to obtain a L4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Completion of the apprenticeship makes you eligible for professional membership of the CIPS.

This is a permanent position so your employment will continue within the Commercial team and we will support you to continue your development and career progression within Defra and the wider civil service.

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Problem solving skills, Administrative skills, Number skills, Analytical skills, Initiative

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English (Grade A* - C or 9 - 4) Essential
GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade A*-C or 9 - 4) Essential
GCSE or equivalent Three other subjects (Grade A* - C or 9 - 4) Essential

Things to consider

Background and experience are not as important as your energy, enthusiasm and commitment as the apprenticeship will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be fully competent in this role. But you'll need to work hard and be fully committed to successfully completing the apprenticeship and building your career with us.