At a Glance
- Tasks: Support strategic sourcing projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive business performance.
- Company: Join Oxford Instruments, a leader in technology-driven global procurement.
- Benefits: Structured programme, real project experience, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for continuous learning and improvement.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement with exposure to global supplier networks.
- Qualifications: Recent graduate or 1-3 years in procurement; strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
At Oxford Instruments, we enable the world’s leading industrial companies and scientific research communities to image, analyse and manipulate materials down to the atomic and molecular level. At X-Ray Technology, we manufacture components and devices used across a range of sectors from healthcare to high-volume manufacturing in any situation where exceptional magnification and image quality are essential.
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?
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
- Analysing 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: We’re looking for motivated, curious individuals who are eager to learn and make an impact:
Education & Experience:
- 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
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 employer: Oxford Instruments plc
At Oxford Instruments, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate in High Wycombe, you'll benefit from a structured programme designed for your professional growth, gaining exposure to global procurement while working on impactful projects from day one. Our commitment to employee development, coupled with the opportunity to engage with cross-functional teams, ensures that you will not only build valuable skills but also contribute meaningfully to our mission of advancing technology across various sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate
✨Get Involved in Procurement Groups
Join local and online procurement communities like the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). Engaging in forums or attending their events can help us learn from the pros and make valuable connections that could lead to trainee opportunities.
✨Showcase Your Interest with Projects
Since we're looking for trainee roles, consider getting hands-on experience. Try volunteering for projects where you can assist with procurement tasks, even in a small capacity. This not only enhances your skills but also gives you concrete examples to share during interviews.
✨Keep an Eye on Internship Openings
Follow the careers page of companies like Oxford Instruments plc closely for trainee programme announcements. These roles are often filled based on internship experiences or early talent programmes, so being proactive can give us an edge!
✨Leverage Your University Resources
Don’t forget about your university's career services! They often have exclusive connections with companies in the procurement sector, and they might even know of trainee opportunities at Oxford Instruments plc. Make sure we utilise these resources to our advantage.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Strategic Sourcing Graduate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Attention to Detail:In procurement, being meticulous is key! Make sure your CV highlights any experiences where you've managed budgets, negotiated prices, or handled contracts. This will show us at Oxford Instruments plc that you're already thinking about the nitty-gritty details that matter in purchasing.
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:As a trainee in procurement, we’re keen to see your ability to analyse data and trends. If you've done any coursework or projects involving data analysis or market research, mention these. We love seeing candidates who are not only organised but also have a knack for understanding the bigger picture.
Express Your Eagerness to Learn:As a trainee, we're less focused on experience and more excited about potential! Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about procurement and what you hope to learn at Oxford Instruments plc. Sharing your enthusiasm can set you apart from other applicants.
Keep It Professional but Personal:While we appreciate a formal tone, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Your application should reflect who you are and your motivation for wanting to work in procurement. A dash of personality mixed with professionalism will make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Instruments plc
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Brush up on the fundamentals of procurement and purchasing. Be ready to discuss key concepts like supplier evaluation and negotiation tactics, as these might come up in your interview with Oxford Instruments plc. They'll be keen to see if you understand the basics and how they apply to real-world scenarios.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Tools
Get acquainted with popular procurement tools and software that companies like Oxford Instruments plc might be using. Basic knowledge of systems like SAP Ariba or Coupa can really set you apart and show that you’re serious about stepping into the procurement field, even as a trainee.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, you might not have extensive experience, but employers like Oxford Instruments plc want to see your enthusiasm for learning. Be prepared to share examples of how you've quickly picked up new skills or concepts in the past, emphasising your eagerness to develop in this role.
✨Prepare Smart Questions
Think about insightful questions you can ask the interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. You could ask about how procurement strategies are influenced by market trends or inquire about the training programmes Oxford Instruments plc offers for their trainees. This shows you’re thinking ahead about your growth!
