Procurement Apprenticeship Level 3

The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a specialty chemical company whose science delivers sustainable solutions to advance mobility, improve wellbeing and enhance modern life. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol owns and operates more than 100 manufacturing facilities, sales, and technical offices around the world and has about 8,000 employees.

We value diversity in professional backgrounds and life experiences. By enabling a consistent, unbiased, and transparent recruitment process, Lubrizol seeks to create a positive experience for candidates so we can get to know them at their best. We recognise unique work and life situations and offer flexibility, ensuring our employees feel engaged and fulfilled in every aspect of life.

As an Indirect Procurement Apprentice you'll be at the forefront of our innovation, supporting the Procurement function in sourcing goods and services that meet business needs, deliver value for money, and ensure compliance with internal processes. You'll collaborate with a diverse group of passionate individuals to deliver sustainable solutions to advance mobility, improve wellbeing, and enhance modern life. This role provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience across a broad range of indirect procurement activities while working closely with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and shared service teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaise with internal customers to understand requirements and support the sourcing of appropriate goods and services.
• Work with suppliers and internal colleagues to ensure procurement activities align with business needs.
• Support the sourcing and purchasing of goods and services in line with internal policies and procedures.
• Communicate effectively with suppliers and build strong, collaborative relationships to support business continuity and performance.
• Work closely with the Stores department to support stock level replenishment, ensuring timely, accurate and quality-controlled deliveries.
• Liaise with Shared Services to ensure efficient and compliant Procure-to-Pay (P2P) processes.
• Ensure all maintenance and service contracts are current and accurately uploaded to the contract database.
• Support contractor compliance by ensuring relevant documentation (e.g. up-to-date insurances) is in place and accessible via the contractor management system.
• Assist with general procurement administration and reporting as required.

Required Qualifications That Enable Your Success

• Minimum Grade C/4 GCSE (or equivalent) in Maths and English. A Levels or equivalent would be beneficial.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise workload effectively and meet target deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage confidently with a range of stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• A keen interest in the commercial aspects of business and procurement.

Desirable Attributes

• Enthusiasm for building collaborative relationships across the business.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, organised approach to work.
• Willingness to learn and develop within a procurement and commercial environment.

This role will appeal to someone who wants the opportunity to have a direct impact on organisational growth and margins, while working with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders. It provides valuable exposure to procurement operations and commercial decision-making within a supportive learning environment.

Your Work Environment

• At Lubrizol, we’re committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where you can do your best work—whether in a lab, on the production floor, or in a hybrid office setting.
• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods.
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE provided.
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment.
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials.
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards.

We continuously invest in our facilities and technologies to ensure they support your well being, productivity, and growth. If you require reasonable accommodation, we are committed to working with you to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.