Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in sourcing and supplier engagement across complex categories.
- Company: Purpose-driven procurement organisation focused on talent development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and clear career progression pathways.
- Why this job: Accelerate your career with real responsibility and mentorship from industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Early procurement experience and a strong desire to learn and grow.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment where your development is a priority.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Birmingham (Hybrid Working)
Up to £45,000 + Package
This opportunity is designed for procurement professionals who are early in their career, highly ambitious, and starting to think seriously about where they can learn fastest, progress quickest and build long-term credibility.
A well-established, purpose-driven procurement organisation is looking to appoint several Procurement Specialists to support its direct procurement activity. Procurement sits at the centre of this organisation, not on the sidelines, and the environment is built around developing talent, sharing knowledge and creating genuine career pathways.
In this role, the successful Procurement Specialist will gain hands-on exposure to end-to-end sourcing, supplier engagement and commercial decision-making across complex direct categories. They will work closely with experienced procurement leaders, category experts and stakeholders, gaining a level of exposure and responsibility that is rarely available at this stage of a procurement career.
This is NOT a role where progression is promised but rarely delivered. One individual who joined the organisation as a Procurement Specialist six years ago has since progressed into a Sourcing Director role. That trajectory is a realistic example of what’s possible for someone with the right mindset and drive.
Based in Birmingham, the organisation operates a hybrid working model, offering flexibility while maintaining strong collaboration and access to senior decision-makers.
What the role offers
- Hands-on experience across end-to-end sourcing and direct procurement activity
- Exposure to complex, high-impact procurement categories
- The opportunity to learn from senior procurement professionals and leaders
- Early responsibility, visibility and structured development
- A clear pathway for progression within a procurement-first organisation
This role will suit someone who
- Has early procurement or commercial experience and wants to accelerate their career
- Ideally has exposure to public sector procurement, though this is not essential
- Is ambitious, curious and motivated to learn quickly
- Enjoys working in a structured but supportive environment
- Is looking for long-term progression rather than a short-term move
Why consider this role
This organisation has a proven track record of developing procurement talent from junior through to leadership level. Joining now means entering an environment where procurement is taken seriously, development is intentional and progression is based on capability and performance.
For ambitious Procurement Specialists looking for a genuine fast-track opportunity, this role is well worth exploring. Confidential conversations are welcomed for those who would like to hear more.
Procurement Specialist - Direct Categories employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist - Direct Categories
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the procurement field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its procurement processes. We recommend practising common interview questions and having your own questions ready to show your interest and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When discussing your experience, we suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly demonstrate your capabilities and achievements.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for ambitious individuals who want to grow in their procurement careers.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Specialist - Direct Categories
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Procurement Specialist role. Highlight any relevant procurement or commercial experience, even if it's just a little, and don’t forget to showcase your ambition and motivation to learn!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're excited about this opportunity and how you see yourself growing within our organisation. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we want to know the real you!
Showcase Your Curiosity: In your application, demonstrate your curiosity and eagerness to learn. Mention specific areas of procurement that interest you and how you plan to develop your skills. We love candidates who are proactive about their growth!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes straight to the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Before the interview, brush up on key procurement concepts and terminology. Understanding the fundamentals of direct procurement and supplier engagement will help you speak confidently about your knowledge and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Ambition
This organisation values ambition and a desire to learn. Be prepared to discuss your career goals and how this position aligns with them. Share examples of how you've taken initiative in previous roles or projects to demonstrate your drive.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the team dynamics, opportunities for mentorship, and how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Even if your experience is limited, focus on any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in procurement or commercial activities. Use specific examples to illustrate your problem-solving abilities and how you've contributed to past teams.
