Description The Procurement and Supply Chain Management function is responsible for the interface with those third-party organisations who support our business whether that be for procurement of goods and services or the relationship management that underpins any such activities. They support project delivery teams across the sectors to ensure the strategic direction is identified and delivered. This role offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the sector, driving efficiency, sustainability, and innovation within the procurement and supply chain functions. The Apprentice plays a vital role in supporting the procurement team throughout the life of project within the Procurement and Supply Chain team. This position will get involved in all aspects of the procurement and supply chain process from Data Analysis and Insights, Supplier Onboarding, Supplier Performance Management, Supplier Due diligence, Project Tendering and Evaluation, Category Management, Supplier Meetings and Presentations identifying Best Practice. The Apprentice ensures that procurement activities are carried out efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with company policies and project requirements. By collaborating with suppliers and internal teams, the Apprentice helps to maintain a reliable supply chain, contributing to the overall effectiveness and profitability of the projects. This role requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving to support the procurement process and ensure timely delivery. What does joining an apprenticeship at Costain offer you? There are a wide range of apprenticeships available both in levels of qualification, and in length of study. At Costain we have a variety of apprenticeships on offer working on projects around the UK in sectors including nuclear, highways, rail, water, airports and tunnels and with a number of partners and joint ventures. When taking on one of the many apprenticeships offered by Costain you will be supported by your project line manager and team, The Costain Early Careers Team, and the training provider of your academic qualification. The training provider may be a college, a university or even an independent training provider. At your interview you will discuss the level of qualification on offer. At this time, we may not know which training provider you will be registered with but either before or in the early weeks of your apprenticeship, the Early Careers Team will register you with a suitable training provider who can support the delivery of your qualification. Being an apprentice means you will work both on-the-job with your project at site, and off-the-job at with the provider. You will be supported throughout your apprenticeship by your local team and line manager, and you will be given time to carry out your studies with the provider etc. Your on-the-job training will be in line with the work available on site but will afford the opportunity to ensure that you are given on site experience required to meet the technical and competency levels in order to achieve your apprenticeship goals. Responsibilities Work alongside the Heads of Central Procurement, Sector Head of P&SC and Head of SRM to assist with identifying and evaluating potential suppliers to ensure a reliable and diverse supply chain. Assist with requesting and receiving quotations from suppliers for various materials and services Prepare and issue purchase orders under the guidance of the Sector P&SC Managers Monitor and track orders to ensure timely delivery and assist in resolving any issues should they arise. Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation for audit and compliance purposes. Assist with conducting market research to stay informed about industry trends, pricing, and new products or services. Assist in analysing data to identify reports / KPIs. Working with Suppliers to produce Supplier Performance Reviews, Due Diligence and Reports. Undertake Market Insights. Qualifications GCSEs with at least a grade C/4 in Maths and English Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams Effective communication and interpersonal skills High attention to detail to ensure accuracy in procurement processes and documentation Strong organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and priorities Ability to evaluate and understand research and identify relevant and valuable information Proactive, flexible and results oriented Adaptable at working in both team environment and working in isolation Willing to work towards membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply