Procurement Higher Apprentice, Global Procurement Team, Warwick
About the Position
Our 24-month Procurement Higher Apprenticeship Programme offers the opportunity to build a career in a function that is critical to the success of National Grid and the delivery of the energy transition. Working within our Global Procurement team, you'll gain hands-on experience supporting the sourcing, negotiation and purchasing of goods, services and works that enable the business to operate effectively.
As part of a FTSE 100 company, you'll work with stakeholders, suppliers and colleagues across both the UK and US, developing an understanding of the full procurement lifecycle. From identifying business needs and developing sourcing strategies to supporting supplier selection, contract negotiations and supply chain management, you'll gain valuable commercial and procurement experience while helping deliver value for the business.
National Grid is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050, and procurement plays a vital role in supporting this ambition. Through this programme, you'll build the knowledge, skills and experience needed for a successful career in procurement while contributing to projects that help shape the future of energy.
What You'll Do
- Support sourcing and procurement activities, helping to identify business requirements and secure goods, services and works that meet stakeholder needs.
- Work with suppliers and internal stakeholders to support supplier selection, tender processes, contract management and procurement projects.
- Assist in the development and implementation of sourcing strategies that deliver value, manage risk and support business objectives.
- Analyse spend, supplier and market data to support decision-making, performance improvements and commercial outcomes.
- Contribute to sustainable procurement initiatives and supply chain activities that support National Grid's commitment to delivering a cleaner energy future.
What You'll Need to Apply
- You will have a minimum of five GCSEs with grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and Maths.
- Have or be predicted to achieve two A-Levels at grade C or above OR BTEC National Certificate OR Diploma Level 3 at Grade Merit or Distinction.
- A driving licence is required for this role so if you do not already have one you must have obtained one by 31st May 2027
Throughout the programme you will support end-to-end procurement activities, from sourcing and supplier selection through to contract award, while helping develop category strategies that deliver value to the business. To thrive in this environment, we're looking for someone who can:
- Communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders, build strong relationships and work collaboratively to achieve shared goals.
- Solve problems and think critically, using evidence and creativity to develop solutions that deliver business value.
- Demonstrate self-awareness and resilience, taking responsibility for their actions and embracing feedback to support continuous development.
- Apply commercial thinking, evaluating options and making recommendations that benefit the business.
- Plan and organise effectively, managing priorities and balancing multiple projects to meet deadlines.
Location
This role is based in Warwick with flexible, hybrid working which includes three days in the office each week
You will be required to live within a 60-minute commutable distance of the following postcode: CV34 6DA
What You'll Get In Return
We are proud to offer a starting salary of £32,876 for this apprenticeship, with annual salary increases throughout the programme.
As a first step into your career in the energy industry, our Higher Apprenticeship programme offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills, gain valuable experience, and build a long-term career with National Grid.
Alongside a tailored development programme to power your career at National Grid, we also offer some great rewards and benefits too:
- Upon successful completion of your two year apprenticeship you will achieve a nationally recognised accredited qualification, Level 4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).
- 26 days' annual leave, plus statutory holidays.
- A competitive pension scheme
- Flexible benefits including cycle to work and holiday buy/sell schemes.
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The opportunity to participate in our Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
- You’ll develop well-rounded skills through practical experience.
- A permanent position upon successful completion of your apprenticeship.
About the Apprenticeship Programme
Alongside your role, you'll complete a Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) as part of our 24-month Higher Apprenticeship Programme. The programme combines structured learning with practical workplace experience, helping you develop the commercial, technical and professional skills needed for a successful career in procurement.
Your development programme will include:
- Working towards a globally recognised CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply
- Hands-on experience across sourcing, supplier management, procurement and commercial activities
- Exposure to procurement projects supporting stakeholders across the UK and US
- Structured development, workplace learning and support from experienced procurement professionals
- A buddy and wider support network to help you develop throughout the programme
- Building the skills, knowledge and behaviours required for a long-term career in procurement and supply chain management
You'll be expected to actively engage in both your role and apprenticeship studies, applying your learning to real business challenges while completing all required training, assessments and development activities.
About National Grid
National Grid is the UK’s critical energy infrastructure company, operating the electricity network and infrastructure that connects millions of people to the energy they use every day, supporting homes, businesses and communities across England and Wales.
We know the future of energy won't be shaped by what we know today. It will be shaped by what's possible tomorrow. That's why we're investing in the next generation of talent, giving apprentices, undergraduates and graduates the opportunity to learn from experts, gain hands-on experience and contribute to work that matters from day one.
Are you ready to unlock the power of the possible?
More Information
We recruit on a rolling basis across our Early Careers Roles. We may close our vacancies early once we have enough applications. We therefore encourage you to apply as early as possible.
National Grid's Early Careers opportunities in the UK are open to all applicants who meet the eligibility criteria including an existing and valid right to work in the UK. As part of the application process this will need to be evidenced and verified before you can start the programme.
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
Please be aware that it’s your responsibility to explore avenues of working in the UK, as we're not able to provide advice on this. For information about visas please visit https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas