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- Tasks: Support global procurement and supply chain teams while learning from industry experts.
- Company: Join John Crane’s first Supply Chain and Procurement Apprentice Academy in Slough.
- Benefits: Gain a Level 4 CIPS qualification with potential progression to Level 5 and 6.
- Other info: Inclusive company culture that values diversity and offers excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement and supply chain with hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Interest in procurement, supply chain, or engineering; teamwork and initiative are key.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
We have an opportunity for Apprentices to join John Crane’s first Supply Chain and Procurement Apprentice Academy in Slough. As an Apprentice you will be involved in supporting our global procurement and supply chain team. This 2-year programme will give you structured rotational opportunities, so you learn from our experts. You will gain knowledge of buying, planning, sourcing and supplier management while completing your Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 qualification with the apprenticeship training provider SRSCC. There could be the opportunity to progress onto Level 5 and 6 qualification in the future.
Key responsibilities
- Support creation, placement, and administration of purchase orders and supply contracts in line with company procedures.
- Assist with demand, inventory, and supply planning activities to ensure material availability and minimise excess/obsolete stock.
- Contribute to sourcing activities, data analysis, and business cases for supplier selection, negotiation and stock making decisions.
- Help monitor supplier performance, manage basic issues, and support continuous improvement and risk‑mitigation actions.
- Maintain accurate data in ERP and related systems (pricing, lead times, contracts, KPIs).
- Create comfortable working with numbers and data.
- Clear written and verbal communication; able to work with stakeholders at different levels.
- Interest in procurement, supply chain, engineering or manufacturing environments, with curiosity about how products are designed and made.
- Organised and reliable, able to balance work and professional study.
- Evidence of strong teamwork and taking initiative.
- Any experience (work, internships, projects) in a commercial, operations, logistics, or engineering setting.
- Basic understanding of supply chains, contracts, or business processes (e.g., through prior study or self‑learning).
- Committed to working towards a qualification as part of your learning journey.
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.
Procurement & Supply Chain Apprentice employer: John Crane
Contact Detail:
John Crane Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement & Supply Chain Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research John Crane and their values, especially around procurement and supply chain. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to procurement and supply chain. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at John Crane. Let's get you that apprenticeship!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement & Supply Chain Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Procurement & Supply Chain role. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or work experience that shows your interest in procurement and supply chain management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this apprenticeship and how your background aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since teamwork is key in this role, make sure to include examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before. Whether it's through school projects or part-time jobs, demonstrate your ability to collaborate and contribute.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application is considered, apply directly through our careers website. This way, you can be confident that your application is reaching the right people and you’re following the proper process!
How to prepare for a job interview at John Crane
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the basics of procurement and supply chain management. Familiarise yourself with key terms like purchase orders, supplier management, and inventory planning. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting. Think of specific instances where you took initiative or contributed to a group project. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate and support others.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the company culture. Inquire about the types of projects you'll be involved in or how the team measures success. This shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the company.
✨Be Data Savvy
Since the role involves working with numbers and data, brush up on your analytical skills. Be prepared to discuss any experience you have with data analysis or using ERP systems. Highlighting your comfort with numbers will reassure them that you can handle the technical aspects of the job.