At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement processes and manage purchase orders in a dynamic office environment.
- Company: Join Doherty Associates, a leading IT solutions provider with a global reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Other info: 33 days annual leave, birthday off, and various employee benefits.
- Why this job: Kickstart your procurement career with hands-on experience and professional development.
- Qualifications: A-level in Business, Economics, or Maths; strong communication and tech skills.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
About Doherty Associates
Doherty Associates (DA) has delivered IT solutions for the past 30 years to world-renowned, international clients. Our focus is on the professional and financial services sector, including leading private equity and venture capital firms and the top 10 UK law firms. We are a Microsoft Gold Partner, with five Solutions Partner Designations, a Tier 1 Microsoft CSP relationship, and are ISO27001 & ISO9001 accredited. Our clients rely on us to bring specialist expertise across cloud solutions, hybrid working, modern workplace, data and BI, cyber security, governance and compliance, and networking. We have built a reputation as a company that keeps its promises and delivers quality.
About The Role
Due to the nature of the role, this position is office based, Monday to Friday, with no option of hybrid working. Reporting to the Procurement Team Leader, the Purchasing Assistant (Apprentice) will be a member of the London Business Support team. This team works closely with the sales and pre‑sales function on quoting and procuring information technology related items (Hardware, Software and Labour) for our clients. You will work closely with colleagues in other business areas, such as the Business Support Team in our Kuala Lumpur office and our service desk. This role will suit an individual looking to make a start in their procurement career in a fast‑paced, multi‑national environment. The business is also of a size where you will get exposure to the full range of procurement related processes so will be able to develop a good understanding of the range of activities necessary for a successful purchasing function. You will be supported to develop your professional skills through the Company’s sponsored training and development programme. As such this role is initially an up to 24‑month apprentice position, and you will be enrolled on the L4 Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship Qualification via SRSCC. Once you pass the exams, you will receive CIPS Level 4 Diploma.
Responsibilities
- Answer incoming calls and direct them to the appropriate department
- Raise and maintain timely and accurate purchase orders
- Raise orders for internal purchases on partner platforms, or via email
- Monitor and manage open purchase orders (POs) and update accordingly
- Chase and manage back‑orders with suppliers
- Track orders and ensure timely delivery
- Accurately record all incoming goods on the company system
- Check incoming delivery notes against POs to ensure value and quantity match. Resolve inconsistencies
- Arrange and prepare shipments of client IT equipment inside and outside UK
- Scan and file all delivery notes and related documentation
- Maintain accurate recording of new and existing preferred supplier contacts in database
- Assist with coordination and sourcing of cost‑effective and high‑quality suppliers
- Manage receipt of parcels (in the office); label and record it on the company system. Ensure appropriate storage in stockroom
- Produce ad‑hoc reports as required
- Provide holiday or sickness cover for absent team members (as and when needed)
Eligibility Criteria
- Be aged 16 or over
- Live in England.
- Have lived in the UK continuously for the last 3 years prior to the start of the apprenticeship
- Not be in full‑time education
- Be legally eligible to work full‑time in the UK for the entire duration of the apprenticeship (up to 24 months)
- Not currently be enrolled in another apprenticeship programme
- Have an A‑level (with minimum C grade) in either Business, Economics or Maths subject
Professional Skills and Abilities
- Excellent communicator with ability to develop effective working relationships with customers, suppliers and staff
- Confident on the phone when dealing with queries
- Tech savvy (confident user of Microsoft Excel, Word)
- Ability to carry out independent search queries
- Very good attention to detail, ability to follow process guidelines
- Methodical and analytical thinking skills
- Fluent spoken English
About The Person
- Professional demeanour
- A positive, ‘can‑do’ attitude
- Ability to listen to understand and support
- Reliable and punctual
- Resilient
- Proactive
- Flexible and adaptable (able to adjust to changing workloads and priorities)
- Ability to deliver to defined timescales
- Self‑starter and motivated to learn, wants to get the job done and has a sense of accountability
- Able to work both independently as well as part of a team
What We Offer
- Basic salary
- Performance bonus
- Standard commuting cost to the office reimbursement (for the 3rd, 4th and 5th day in a week) - discretionary
- Sponsored L4 Procurement Assistant Qualification via SRSCC
- 33 days of annual leave (including 8 UK bank holidays)
- Days off on your birthday
- Pension scheme
- Private Medical and Income Protection insurance
- Company sick pay
- Cycle to work scheme / IT purchase scheme / Season ticket loan scheme
Purchasing Assistant (Apprentice) employer: Doherty Associates
Doherty Associates is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth of its employees, offering a comprehensive apprenticeship programme that leads to a CIPS Level 4 Diploma. With a supportive work culture in a dynamic London office, employees benefit from a range of perks including generous annual leave, private medical insurance, and performance bonuses, all while working alongside industry experts in a fast-paced, multi-national environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Purchasing Assistant (Apprentice)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role. Understand their values and how you can contribute. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows you're keen and professional, which is always a plus in the eyes of employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Purchasing Assistant (Apprentice) role. We love seeing applications directly from motivated candidates who are eager to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Purchasing Assistant (Apprentice)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Purchasing Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, like your attention to detail and communication skills. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Show Your Enthusiasm:Let your passion for procurement shine through in your application. Mention why you're excited about starting your career with us at Doherty Associates and how you can contribute to our success. A positive attitude goes a long way!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read, so make sure your key points stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and helps us process your application smoothly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Doherty Associates
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of procurement and supply chain management. Familiarise yourself with common terms and processes, as well as Doherty Associates' role in the IT solutions sector. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
As a Purchasing Assistant, you'll need to communicate effectively with suppliers and team members. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to prepare a few examples of how you've successfully communicated in past experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail
In procurement, accuracy is key. Be ready to discuss how you ensure precision in your work. You could mention any relevant experiences where attention to detail made a difference, like managing orders or checking delivery notes.
✨Embrace the 'Can-Do' Attitude
Doherty Associates values a positive mindset. During the interview, express your willingness to tackle challenges and adapt to changing situations. Share examples of how you've approached tasks with a proactive attitude, showing that you're ready to contribute to the team.
