At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic projects in procurement, focusing on quality and sustainability.
- Company: Join Mars, a global leader in the FMCG industry.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £33,000, joining bonus, flexible hours, and competitive benefits.
- Other info: Experience diverse placements, potential international opportunities, and best-in-class development support.
- Why this job: Make impactful decisions today for a sustainable tomorrow while building lifelong friendships.
- Qualifications: Degree in any subject, passion for procurement, and ambition to succeed.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 37000 £ per year.
Our Procurement Leadership Program gives you exposure across Mars, a Global Leader in the FMCG space. You’ll be fully involved in strategic business decisions, leading projects that are about making sure we buy the right products, driven initially by quality and then at the right price. You’ll make sustainability a priority and build mutual relationships with suppliers. You’ll get world-class support, and meet friends for life, all whilst developing your future career, today. You will discover how your decisions today impact our business tomorrow.
What does the Programme entail?
- You’ll embark on 3 x 12-month placements across the Mars business.
- There is a potential opportunity to work abroad for one of those placements.
- Manage supplier relationships.
- Work on sustainability.
- Ensure we buy the right quality products at the right price.
What can we offer you?
- Starting salary of £33,000 and joining bonus of £2,000.
- Wide range of competitive benefits, including competitive pension and healthcare scheme, annual bonus and flexible working hours.
- Mentors and coaches to help you grow.
- Join our global graduate community, create friends for life and join a global business.
- Commitment to your development, both personally and professionally.
What do we need from you?
- You’ll have obtained a degree in any subject, graduating next summer or graduated within the last 2 years.
- Mobile within the UK. Your home site will be Slough, but you may need to relocate for 1 of your placement years.
- A passion for Procurement is a must.
- You’ll need to have the drive and ambition to forge a challenging career in Procurement.
What can you expect from Mars?
- Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
- Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
- Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to Mars University.
- An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.
Mars Procurement Leadership Experience 2026 Graduate Programme in Slough employer: Mars
Mars is an exceptional employer that prioritises your professional growth and personal development through its Procurement Leadership Programme. With a starting salary of £33,000, a joining bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values sustainability and innovation. Join a diverse team in Slough, where you'll build lasting relationships and gain invaluable experience across global placements, all while contributing to a purpose-driven company committed to shaping a better tomorrow.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mars Procurement Leadership Experience 2026 Graduate Programme in Slough
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Mars.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Mars Procurement Leadership Experience 2026 Graduate Programme in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Mars:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Mars. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Mars.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Mars!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Mars. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Mars's culture.
