Apprentice Purchaser in Colchester

This is an exciting entry-level opportunity for someone looking to start a career in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain. As Apprentice Purchaser, you will work alongside our experienced Warehouse & Purchasing Manager, learning the fundamentals of purchasing operations in a busy, real-world environment. You will be supported throughout your apprenticeship with full on-the-job training, a structured learning programme, and dedicated time for off-the-job training (a minimum of 20% of your working hours, as required under apprenticeship rules). No prior experience in purchasing is required — we will teach you everything you need to know.

Responsibilities

• Raising purchase orders where sales orders cannot be fulfilled from existing stock
• Ensuring purchase orders contain all necessary information so that goods and services are delivered correctly and on time
• Contacting suppliers to check pricing, confirm delivery dates, and chase outstanding orders
• Entering and processing delivery notes accurately into our systems
• Responding to queries from internal teams and suppliers by phone and email in a timely and professional manner
• Supporting the development of supplier relationships to improve service and responsiveness
• Maintaining accurate filing and records for the purchasing department
• Keeping purchase order due dates up to date and flagging potential issues proactively
• Following company procedures for record-keeping and system updates
• Supporting wider service departments and contributing to shared business goals
• Adhering to all company Health & Safety, Quality, and HR policies

What We’re Looking For

• Good written and verbal communication skills — you will be comfortable picking up the phone and writing professional emails
• Attention to detail — accuracy matters in purchasing, and you’ll take care with data, documents, and records
• Organised and able to manage your time effectively in a busy environment
• Reliable and punctual — the team depends on you
• A positive, can-do attitude — you’ll take initiative and contribute to solutions, not just wait to be told what to do
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
• Basic IT skills — familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) is helpful, though full training will be provided
• Commitment to Sportsafe’s values and a professional approach in the workplace

Desirable

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English
• Any work experience, part-time employment, or work placement — in any sector
• An interest in purchasing, supply chain, business administration, or a related field

What You’ll Gain

• A nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification (Level 3)
• Hands-on experience within a busy, commercially active purchasing department
• Full structured training and ongoing support from experienced colleagues
• Exposure to procurement, stock management, supplier management, and supply chain processes
• Dedicated off-the-job learning time (minimum 20% of working hours)
• A genuine pathway to a permanent role and career progression within Sportsafe on successful completion

Location

17 – 19 Smeaton close, Highwoods, Colchester, CO4 9QY

Working Hours

40-hour working week – Monday to Thursday 8.00 am – 4.45 pm, Friday 8.00 am – 3.30 pm. 40-minute lunch break.

Package

• Competitive apprenticeship salary (in line with or above the National Apprenticeship Minimum Wage)
• 20 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays
• Auto-enrolment pension with employer contribution (subject to eligibility)
• Health Cash Plan — reimbursement towards dental, optical, and other medical costs
• Group Life Insurance (death in service benefit)
• Staff benefits portal with retailer discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme — legal advice and mental health wellbeing support
• Bike to Work Scheme
• Annual Christmas social event