Applications for the September 2025 Cohort have now closed.
You will be able to register your interest for the next round of applications for the September 2026 Cohort from August 2025.
Applications for the 2026 NHS Graduate Procurement Training Scheme will open on Monday 10th November 2025.
We are looking for influential individuals who want a career in procurement, delivering deeper value for money, in an ever-changing organisation.
If you believe that you can make a difference whilst undertaking a fulfilling career that maximises your procurement and leadership potential, then our 2 year training scheme, based on work placements, will be ideal for you.
You will be offered outstanding development opportunities, including technical skills development, via a fully funded, internationally recognised procurement qualification – Chartered Institute of Procurement Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship
We have a number of places on our National scheme, offering roles within NHS organisations across the whole of England; follow the application process to apply and opt in for your preference of location.
All roles are open for applicants with a valid visa. In order to be eligible for the scheme, you must be living in the UK and have been resident in the country for at least 3 years (not for educational purposes) prior to the September start date.
The below job description outlines the structure and expectations for the 2-year scheme. Specific details for each role can be found on the next page.
The role of the Graduate Procurement Trainee will be to assist the procurement team at the employing organisation. The aim is for you to observe and learn the process of procurement and the various practices and procedures that are in place. NHS procurement covers a broad range of areas from buying and supply chain management, to contract and relationship management. Depending on the role of the organisation, this may also include national contracting and providing strategic direction. The work is varied, rewarding and challenging.
As part of the procurement team, you will provide assistance to all levels of procurement professionals within the team and you will be experiencing various departments on a rotation basis.
The role of the procurement team varies depending on the nature of the NHS organisation. Procurement teams within central organisations will conduct slightly different tasks to those in an Acute Trust, Mental Health Trust, Community Trust or Integrated Care Board (ICB). However, many of the basic principles, such as working with category teams, dealing with supply chain management, dealing with items such as PPE, ward and medical supplies and uniforms for staff will be consistent across many of the roles. You may also learn about Scan for Safety and inventory management.
Time will be spent with the procurement managers or category managers, identifying and sourcing appropriate supplies and goods, providing cost effective solutions for the organisation. You will regularly liaise with suppliers and supply chain teams to ensure value for money and the best service possible is being delivered.
As a graduate on the procurement scheme you will complete a CIPS Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship, also resulting in a level 4 diploma. This will take the full 2-years and you will be expected to attend training and undertake learning during your own time. A CIPS qualification will ensure you have the knowledge and skills desired to progress within procurement.
As part of the scheme, you will have support from line managers and colleagues, however you will also gain support from a mentor, who will help and guide you, offering advice and support where possible.
We are looking for an efficient and capable graduate to provide support to the procurement teams, working in a reactive environment, which follows set guidelines. You will assist team members in areas needing support during this incredibly busy and demanding time.
You will be expected to:
We aim to create a healthy and high performing organisation, underpinned by the NHS Constitution values:
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