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- Tasks: Support procurement and contract management to help keep the UK safe.
- Company: Join the Home Office, dedicated to building a secure and fair UK.
- Benefits: Gain a globally recognised qualification while earning and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public safety and develop valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 16+, live in the UK for 3 years, and work full-time.
- Other info: Enjoy rotational experience across diverse teams in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
The Home Office works to build a safe, fair and prosperous UK. We achieve this through our work on counter-terrorism, policing, crime, drugs policy, immigration and passports. The Chief Operating Officer Group works closely with the Home Office’s policy and operational commands to enable us together to deliver the department’s priorities.
Are you interested in joining a profession that plays a vital role in keeping our citizens safe and our country secure? Would you like to build your knowledge and develop expertise in procurement and contract management, supporting efforts to reduce crime, enforce the law, protect our borders, and safeguard the most vulnerable in society? If so, the Level 4 Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) apprenticeship could be the perfect opportunity for you.
As an apprentice, you’ll help us secure the best value from the goods and services we procure for the Home Office. You’ll be a proactive team player, an effective communicator, and someone who can think on their feet to support our busy Commercial teams. The CIPS apprenticeship allows you to study while you work, gaining a globally recognised commercial qualification alongside invaluable hands-on experience. This role offers a strong foundation of transferable skills in a dynamic environment, an excellent stepping stone for a career in the Civil Service.
You could be placed in one of our Commercial Business Partner teams, such as:
- Borders and Migration
- Public Safety
- Homeland Security
- Emergency Services
- Mobile Communications Programme
- Home Office Digital
We are looking for dedicated, ambitious, and motivated individuals who can help deliver the objectives of the Commercial Directorate and contribute to strengthening our reputation as a trusted team that secures value for money from our contracts.
Rotational Experience and Skill Development
As part of our flexible apprenticeship model, you’ll rotate across different teams within the Commercial Directorate. These rotations are designed to give you hands-on experience in a variety of commercial areas, such as procurement, contract management, grants and supplier engagement while building both technical and transferable skills. By working with diverse teams and tackling real-world challenges, you’ll quickly develop the confidence, adaptability, and expertise needed for a successful career in the Civil Service.
Key Responsibilities
This role offers a range of opportunities to get involved in key areas of commercial delivery, including:
- Complete accredited training modules, including coursework and assessments.
- Support compliance by understanding commercial policies, contracts, and legal requirements.
- Assist Commercial Leads in managing contracts, tracking KPIs, and analysing spend.
- Help with contract changes and learn the full change control process.
- Build and maintain supplier relationships to ensure quality and timely delivery.
- Contribute to pricing strategies, financial models, and supplier bid evaluations.
- Identify and manage risks to support successful contract delivery.
- Provide data management, reporting, and project support to aid decision-making.
Working Pattern
Due to the business requirements of this role, it is only available on a full-time basis.
Training
There is mandatory learning associated with Commercial Roles. You’ll receive monthly coaching sessions with your line manager to support your development, alongside opportunities for on-the-job training and access to online learning resources. You will receive full training and support to do the job. Training takes place on the job with a mentor who supports you until you are fully confident in the role. Even then you are never alone; you work as part of a team where there is always someone around for advice and support.
Apprenticeship
This position includes completing a Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner qualification, which takes around 18 months. To be eligible, you must:
- Be 16 or older (no upper age limit)
- Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before starting
- Not be in another apprenticeship or paid education
- Work at least 30 hours per week.
- Not already hold a similar qualification at Level 3 or higher
For more details, see Procurement and supply chain practitioner / Skills England.
Travel
Some travel to attend team meetings; supplier events may be required.
Commercial Assistant Apprenticeship in Manchester employer: Government Recruitment Service
Contact Detail:
Government Recruitment Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Assistant Apprenticeship in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Home Office and its mission! Research their work on counter-terrorism, policing, and immigration. This will help you understand their priorities and show your genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former apprentices and employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the apprenticeship.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to procurement and contract management. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills as a proactive team player and effective communicator.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Home Office and contributing to its vital work.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Assistant Apprenticeship in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to the Home Office's mission of keeping the UK safe and secure.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Commercial Assistant Apprenticeship. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with procurement, contract management, or teamwork. We love seeing how you can fit into our dynamic environment!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and potential.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the apprenticeship and what we’re looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the Commercial Assistant role. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, contract management, and the Home Office's objectives. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a proactive team player, it's essential to demonstrate your ability to work well with others. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've collaborated effectively or contributed to a team project. This will highlight your suitability for the dynamic environment of the Civil Service.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship, the teams you'll rotate through, and the skills you'll develop. This shows that you're engaged and eager to learn, which is exactly what the Home Office is looking for.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Be honest about your motivations for applying and what you hope to achieve during the apprenticeship. The Home Office values dedicated and ambitious individuals, so let your passion shine through!
