Procurement & supply chain graduate jobs & schemes 2025

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This sector offers a range of roles focused on managing the flow of goods, services, and resources. Common graduate jobs include:

Procurement (Buying & Sourcing)

  • Procurement Analyst
  • Procurement Officer
  • Category Buyer / Manager
  • Supplier Relationship Manager

Supply Chain Management

  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Demand Planner
  • Inventory & Stock Control Specialist

Logistics & Operations

  • Transport & Distribution Coordinator
  • Warehouse & Operations Manager
  • Freight & Logistics Planner

Many large companies, particularly in retail, manufacturing, FMCG, and technology , offer graduate schemes in procurement and supply chain management.

Yes, many organisations offer dedicated procurement and supply chain graduate schemes , including:

  • Retail & FMCG: Tesco, Amazon, Unilever, P&G, Nestlé, Mars
  • Manufacturing & Engineering: Rolls-Royce, Siemens, Jaguar Land Rover, Airbus
  • Pharmaceutical & Healthcare: GSK, AstraZeneca, NHS Supply Chain
  • Consulting & Logistics: DHL, Kuehne + Nagel, PwC (Supply Chain Consulting)
  • Public Sector: Civil Service Fast Stream (Commercial & Procurement), NHS Supply Chain, Local Government

These schemes typically last 18–24 months and provide training in different areas of the supply chain.

While some roles prefer degrees in business, supply chain management, logistics, or engineering , many graduate schemes accept candidates from a wide range of disciplines .

Useful degrees include:

  • Business & Management
  • Supply Chain & Logistics
  • Economics or Finance
  • Engineering or Manufacturing
  • Mathematics or Data Analytics

Certifications such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) or APICS (for supply chain management) can also boost your career prospects.

  • Negotiation & Communication – Essential for procurement roles when dealing with suppliers.
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills – Useful for demand planning, inventory management, and supply chain optimisation.
  • Commercial Awareness – Understanding costs, contracts, and business strategy is crucial.
  • Data & Technology Proficiency – Knowledge of ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and analytics tools (Excel, Power BI) is highly valued.
  • Attention to Detail – Important for managing supplier contracts and inventory levels.

Salaries vary depending on location, company, and role:

  • Procurement Analyst / Buyer: £25,000 – £35,000
  • Supply Chain Analyst: £26,000 – £38,000
  • Logistics Coordinator: £24,000 – £32,000
  • Graduate Schemes (Big Companies): £28,000 – £40,000
  • Public Sector Procurement (e.g., NHS, Civil Service): £27,000 – £32,000

Salaries can increase significantly with CIPS qualifications and experience.

  • Procurement and supply chain roles are growing in demand due to globalisation, sustainability concerns, and recent supply chain disruptions.
  • Graduate schemes can be competitive , but entry-level roles in logistics, purchasing, and inventory management offer good starting points.
  • Public sector procurement jobs (e.g., NHS, local councils) are often less competitive than private sector schemes.

  • Office-based procurement roles typically have structured 9–5 hours , though contract negotiations may require flexibility.
  • Supply chain and logistics roles can be fast-paced , with some requiring shift work, especially in warehouses and distribution centres.
  • Consulting & multinational corporations may involve travel and longer hours, particularly in supply chain strategy roles.

  • Supply Chain Disruptions – Global events (e.g., pandemics, Brexit, shipping crises) can impact operations.
  • Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing – Companies must balance cost savings with environmental and ethical concerns.
  • Technology & Automation – The rise of AI and automation is changing how supply chains operate.
  • Cost Pressures & Supplier Risks – Managing relationships with suppliers while maintaining profitability is challenging.

✔ Gain relevant work experience – Internships, part-time retail jobs, or supply chain placements can help.
✔ Develop analytical & Excel skills – Employers value candidates who can work with data.
✔ Learn about procurement processes – Familiarise yourself with CIPS, purchasing contracts, and supplier management.
✔ Network with professionals – Attend industry events, join LinkedIn groups, and connect with supply chain professionals.
✔ Consider additional certifications – CIPS (procurement) or APICS (supply chain management) can enhance your qualifications.