At a Glance
- Tasks: Support global procurement projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Company: Join Oxford Instruments, a tech-driven leader in global procurement.
- Benefits: Structured development programme, real project experience, and career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic role with exposure to international businesses and supplier networks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement and make a real business impact.
- Qualifications: Recent graduate or 1-3 years' experience in relevant fields.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Start your career in global procurement with Oxford Instruments. Are you a recent graduate with a passion for business, data, and problem‑solving? Looking to build a long‑term career in procurement and supply chain within a global, technology‑driven organisation? We’re offering an exciting opportunity to join our Group Strategic Sourcing team as a Category Graduate—a dynamic, hands‑on role designed to give you real experience, structured development, and exposure across our international businesses.
About The Role
As a Group Strategic Sourcing Category Graduate, you’ll work closely with experienced Category Managers and cross‑functional teams to deliver impactful projects that improve cost, quality, service, supply resilience, and sustainability. This is a Group‑level role, offering exposure across multiple business units, categories, and supplier markets, giving you a unique opportunity to understand how procurement drives business performance.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting the development and execution of category sourcing strategies
- Analyzing supplier and spend data to drive informed decision‑making
- Collaborating with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Finance
- Monitoring supplier performance, including:
- Cost (PPV)
- On‑Time Delivery
- Quality metrics
- Supporting supplier management and Approved Vendor List maintenance
- Contributing to cost improvement initiatives and sourcing projects
- Assisting with new product development sourcing activities
- Supporting contracting, risk management, and supplier performance tracking
What We’re Looking For
- Recent graduate or 1–3 years’ experience in procurement, supply chain, operations or similar
- Degree in a relevant field preferred
- MCIPS (or working towards) is a plus
Skills & Capabilities
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Good understanding of commercial and financial concepts
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong organisational skills with attention to detail
- Confidence using Excel and PowerPoint
Personal Qualities
- Proactive, enthusiastic, and eager to learn
- Collaborative and relationship‑focused
- Curious, with a continuous improvement mindset
- Comfortable challenging ideas constructively
- Adaptable and resilient in a fast‑paced environment
Why join us?
- Structured programme with built in progression
- Exposure to global procurement and supplier networks
- Work on real projects from day one
- Build strong cross‑functional relationships
- Develop skills in strategic sourcing, data analysis, and supplier management
- A clear pathway towards a long‑term career in procurement and supply chain
Ready to start your journey? If you’re looking for a role where you can learn, grow, and make a real business impact from the outset, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and start shaping your future with Oxford Instruments.
Selection Process: If you are successful in being selected to progress, we will be running cognitive assessments that will be sent to you in advance of an interview. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate in High Wycombe employer: Oxford Instruments GmbH
At Oxford Instruments, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate, you will benefit from a structured development programme, gaining hands-on experience in global procurement while working alongside experienced professionals. Our commitment to employee growth, coupled with the opportunity to engage in impactful projects across international markets, makes this an ideal place for recent graduates eager to build a meaningful career in supply chain management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate in High Wycombe
✨Get into the Right Communities
Join online forums and local meetups tailored to procurement and purchasing professionals. Groups on platforms like LinkedIn can be super helpful for connecting with seasoned pros and staying updated on industry trends. It's a great way for us to learn the ropes and find out about potential job openings!
✨Leverage Your University Network
If you're still at uni or just graduated, tap into your career services! They often have connections with companies looking for entry-level procurement talent. Plus, attending career fairs can put you face-to-face with employers—like Oxford Instruments GmbH—who are keen to discover fresh talent.
✨Show Off Your Skills in Real-Time
Consider volunteering for projects or internships that allow you to demonstrate your procurement skills. Whether it’s managing resources for an event or helping local businesses streamline their purchasing process, these hands-on experiences can make your application stand out and show hiring managers your ability to contribute.
✨Don't Just Stick to Online Applications
While applying through our website is a must, be proactive! Reach out to potential employers directly, like Oxford Instruments GmbH. A polite email expressing your interest in their entry-level roles could make a memorable impression. You never know what doors might open if you take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Skills:For an entry-level role in procurement and purchasing, it’s super important to showcase any analytical skills, attention to detail, and organisational abilities. If you've done any projects or coursework relevant to supply chain management or procurement in your studies, make sure to mention that experience in your CV!
Show Your Passion for Procurement:Use your cover letter to express your interest in procurement and why you're excited about this specific opportunity at Oxford Instruments GmbH. Talk about your eagerness to learn and how you can contribute to their purchasing strategy. A little enthusiasm can go a long way!
Include Any Relevant Experience:Even if you don’t have direct procurement experience, consider including any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work that demonstrate your skills in negotiation, relationship building, or project management. These transferable skills are just as important for an entry-level role!
Tailor Your Application for Oxford Instruments GmbH:When applying, take the time to customise your CV and cover letter for Oxford Instruments GmbH. Mention their values and any specific procurement challenges they face that you’d love to help with. This shows not just your effort, but also your genuine interest in the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Instruments GmbH
✨Get to Grips with Basic Procurement Concepts
Before your interview for the Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate at Oxford Instruments GmbH, brush up on key procurement terms and processes. Knowing the difference between strategic sourcing and operational purchasing can go a long way in showcasing your knowledge and eagerness to learn!
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Procurement relies heavily on analysis, so be prepared to tackle some case studies or numerical questions during your interview. Reflect on any academic projects or coursework where you've used data analysis to make purchasing decisions, as these will highlight your problem-solving skills to the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Entry-level roles often focus on your potential rather than extensive experience. Get ready for behavioural questions that explore how you handle teamwork or problem-solving. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and relate them back to any group projects or internships you've done.
✨Research Current Trends in Procurement
Being up-to-date with the latest trends can set you apart as a fresh candidate eager to contribute. Familiarise yourself with sustainable sourcing practices or digital procurement technologies, and bring these up during your interview to impress the hiring team at Oxford Instruments GmbH with your insights!
