At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn the ropes of procurement while supporting purchasing activities and building supplier relationships.
- Company: Join TE, a leader in creating a safer and more connected world.
- Benefits: Gain a Level 4 Diploma and enjoy hands-on training with industry professionals.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement with real-world experience and recognised qualifications.
- Qualifications: Interest in Procurement and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
At TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world.
As an Apprentice Buyer, you will learn how purchasing activities support the business, ensuring materials and components are available to meet manufacturing requirements. You will work closely with suppliers, production teams, and experienced procurement professionals while developing the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in procurement. Alongside your on-the-job training, you will complete the Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply through the Oxford College of Procurement and Supply, gaining a recognised industry qualification.
Job Requirements
- The role of a Buyer within a manufacturing and industrial environment.
- How procurement supports business and operational objectives.
- The use of SAP to manage purchasing activities, supplier information, and purchase orders.
- How to monitor and manage supplier performance and delivery schedules.
- Understanding supplier capacity constraints and their impact on production.
- Building effective relationships between suppliers and manufacturing teams.
- Supply chain planning, stock management, and inventory control principles.
- Procurement best practices, commercial awareness, and negotiation fundamentals.
Key Responsibilities
- Support Buyers with day-to-day purchasing activities.
- Create and manage purchase orders using SAP.
- Track supplier deliveries and follow up on outstanding orders.
- Liaise with suppliers to ensure material availability and on-time delivery.
- Assist in identifying and resolving supply chain issues.
- Maintain accurate procurement records and data.
- Build positive working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Procurement team.
- Work collaboratively with manufacturing teams to understand production requirements.
What We're Looking For
- A genuine interest in Procurement, Supply Chain, Economics, and Manufacturing.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
- A proactive approach and willingness to learn.
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
- Basic Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths.
Competencies Values: Integrity, Accountability, Inclusion, Innovation, Teamwork
Apprenticeship - Buyer employer: TE Connectivity
TE Connectivity in Swindon is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises health and safety while fostering continuous improvement. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring personal and professional growth within a supportive team environment. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, working here means being part of a forward-thinking company that values your contributions and encourages collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprenticeship - Buyer
✨Get Involved in Local Procurement Communities
Dive into local procurement forums and groups! There are often networking events and workshops where you can meet industry professionals. This is your chance to ask questions, learn more about the field, and even make some connections. Plus, it’ll give you a leg up when looking for apprenticeships.
✨Showcase Your Interest Through Projects
Think about taking on small projects related to procurement, like simulating a buying process or researching suppliers. You can even showcase these on platforms like LinkedIn. This will demonstrate your passion for the field and help you stand out when you’re applying for an apprenticeship at places like TE Connectivity.
✨Connect with Your School’s Career Services
Don’t forget about your school’s career services! They often have exclusive listings and can help you find apprenticeship openings in procurement. They might even have connections to companies like TE Connectivity that you wouldn’t find on traditional job boards.
✨Be Active on Job Boards and Apply Directly
Keep an eye on apprenticeship job boards and don't hesitate to apply directly through our website. Many companies like TE Connectivity might list openings there before they hit wider job boards. So, be proactive; the early bird gets the worm!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprenticeship - Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Enthusiasm for Procurement:As you're applying for a procurement apprenticeship, we want to see your passion for the field! In your cover letter, share why you're interested in procurement, maybe mention any relevant projects, or experiences you've had in school or outside of it. This is your chance to let your love for the industry shine through!
Highlight Organisational Skills:In procurement, being organised is key. When crafting your CV, make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences that reflect your organisational abilities. This could include managing group projects, budgeting for school events, or even any admin tasks you've done. The more specific, the better!
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Key Skills:For a procurement apprenticeship, think about including skills like negotiation, analysis, and communication. Make sure your CV highlights any practical experiences you have, such as working in customer service or team projects, that demonstrate these skills. Tailoring your CV helps us see how you fit into the role!
Keep Your Application Conversational:Since this is an apprenticeship, it's important to keep your application a bit more conversational and friendly. Use a tone that reflects your personality while still remaining professional. This will help us at TE Connectivity get a sense of who you are beyond just the paper!
How to prepare for a job interview at TE Connectivity
✨Know Your Procurement Processes
In procurement, it's all about understanding the supply chain and negotiation tactics. Brush up on common procurement strategies and be ready to discuss how you would approach supplier relationships. Demonstrating your awareness of these concepts can really set you apart during the interview with TE Connectivity.
✨Get Familiar with Tools of the Trade
Make sure you’ve dived into procurement software or tools relevant to the industry, like SAP Ariba or Coupa. Even if you haven't used them directly, showing that you know what they are and how they impact procurement can impress your interviewers at TE Connectivity.
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this is an apprenticeship, the focus will be on your potential and attitude. Be ready to talk about why you're excited about a career in procurement and how this apprenticeship will help you grow. Share any relevant projects or experiences, even if they're informal.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You might get hit with scenarios like dealing with a supplier who’s fallen short on delivery. Think about how you’d handle such situations and showcase your problem-solving skills. This demonstrates that you not only know the theory but can apply it in real-world situations!
