2026 Procurement Apprentice – Modern Apprenticeship in Procurement (SCQF Level 6)
Employer: Thales UK
Start date: 07 September 2026
Salary: £24,000 per annum
Employee type: Permanent
Location: Glasgow
Working schedule: 37 hours a week; Monday–Thursday 8 hours a day, Friday 5 hours
What the role offers
- Practical learning and hands‑on experience in tactical buying and procurement
- Opportunity to support cost‑saving initiatives and efficient purchasing decisions
- Exposure to supplier management and maintaining positive supplier relationships
- Training in core procurement processes and procedures
- Experience in purchase order creation and management
- Developing customer service skills by supporting internal stakeholders
- Building confidence in problem‑solving within supply‑chain operations
- Experience in contract administration and the basics of procurement law
- Collaboration with a centralised UK team on supply‑chain activities
- Support in developing skills in responsible and sustainable procurement
- Introduction to risk identification and management in the procurement context
- Real prospects for growth and development within the procurement profession
Role description
As an Apprentice Tactical Buyer, you will become a valued member of our UK centralised procurement team, working at the very heart of supply‑chain operations. You will gain essential experience in tactical buying, negotiation, and supplier relationship management, helping to ensure value and compliance for the business. You’ll learn to create and manage purchase orders, solve day‑to‑day supply‑chain challenges, and deliver excellent service to internal customers. Working closely with colleagues across functions, you’ll also develop your skills in contract administration and risk awareness, all while learning to promote ethical and sustainable procurement. This role offers practical experience and a strong foundation to build your career and progress in the procurement profession.
Apprenticeship programme
As a Procurement Apprentice you will enrol onto a Modern Apprenticeship in Procurement at City of Glasgow College. Delivered over two years, your learning will take place in the workplace in the first year, with some on‑campus delivery in the second year to complete the CIPS modules. Upon completion you will have achieved a CIPS Level 2 qualification, and those with the required aptitude and commitment will be supported to progress onto the CIPS Level 4 Procurement Diploma.
Requirements
- 2 Highers (or equivalent qualifications) at grade C or above
- 5 National 5s (A–C), including English and Maths
- Resident in Scotland on or before 1 August 2026 and for the duration of the programme
Benefits
- 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
- Company pension
- Health care cash plan
- Life insurance
- Discount portal
- Performance‑related pay uplifts
- 80 hours volunteering (first two years)
Closing date
Applications will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. Roles may close earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive a high number of applications.
Recruitment process
Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week for all graduates and apprentices will take place from Monday 7 September to Friday 11 September 2026. Further information, including hints and tips, can be found on the Thales Future Talent website.
Security clearance
All successful candidates must possess the permanent right to work in the UK. They will be required to undergo Government security clearance at BPSS Level and obtain full Security Clearance (SC) in line with UKSV requirements before starting. Prior full security clearance is advantageous but not required; successful applicants will achieve and maintain SC clearance prior to commencing employment.
Equal opportunity
Thales is an equal opportunities employer. Diversity and inclusion are integral to our success. Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment process and will provide reasonable adjustments to support neuro‑diverse applicants or those with a disability or long‑term condition.
