Support supply chain teams with strategic, forward-thinking leaders
The Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship builds on core knowledge of supply chain functions with the advanced commercial awareness, negotiation skills and strategic thinking to lead teams.
Learners will develop commercial awareness, negotiation skills and a strategic approach to procurement, and be able to enact strategic, cost-effective decision-making based on marketing analysis, spend evaluation and risk forecasting.
KEY INFORMATION
- Future-proof your procurement function with confident, capable professionals
- Strengthen compliance in your procurement processes and commercial values
- Develop skills in areas such as procurement lifecycles, regulations and legislations, and negotiation techniques
APPRENTICESHIP DETAILS
The Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship is designed for staff who are looking to develop commercial awareness, negotiation skills, and a strategic approach to procurement.
- Open cohorts start in April/May and September/October
- Closed cohorts can start at any time
- Hybrid, online and in-person delivery
- Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning
The Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship is suitable for members of staff currently working in a role with purchasing decisions, supplier engagement and inventory management. On this programme, learners will develop skills in managing the procurement process, collaborating with stakeholders, cost ownership analysis and identifying and mitigating compliance risks to procurement processes.
Upon completion, apprentices will be able to analyse spend, ensure contractual information is maintained, contribute to the formulation of the procurement category strategy, and manage and advise stakeholders on procurement processes, techniques and policies. This programme will help your business enable strategic, decision-making based quality data analysis and forward-thinking problem-solving.
The Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship costs £10,000 per learner which includes End-Point Assessment.
Funding
Apprenticeships can be funded from your Apprenticeship Levy or by Government Co-Invest. If you do not pay the Levy, the Government will fund 95% of the programme, meaning you pay as little as £500 per person you enrol. We are also able to offer privately funded places for any employees not eligible for apprenticeship funding. For further information about funding options, eligibility and costs, please contact us.
Cost Includes:
- Bespoke off-the-job learning plan
- Programme Manager overseeing the learner journey and apprentice experience
- Delivery of the programme by retail experts
- Blend of sessions including online learning, webinars, in-person workshops, and individual coaching and support
- Preparation and support for End-Point Assessment
- Dedicated Client Manager
- Access to FRA resources including WGSN, LinkedIn Learning, Global Data, Business of Fashion, Fashion/Beauty Monitor and Drapers
- Online e-Portfolio
- Monthly progress report
Duration: 18 months
The Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship typically takes 18 months to complete, followed by a period of end-point assessment of approximately 3 months.
Open Cohort Intakes:
April/May
September/October
Enquire now to secure places for your team
Closed Cohorts
We can begin a closed intake apprenticeship at any time that suits your brand. We require a minimum of 10 learners to offer a closed cohort for Level 4 Procurement & Supply Chain Practitioner.
For our closed-access programmes, we can devise a flexible programme and delivery model to support the needs of your business – please get in touch to find out more about the options available.
Off-the-job learning is delivered through a combination of 121 coaching, full day and half day group workshops approximately every 3–4 weeks, which may take place online or in person.
Procurement Strategy & Lifecycle
- Procurement life cycles and alignment with organisational budgets and structure.
- Category management approach and its impact on procurement.
- Horizon scanning for current and future sector needs.
- Planning, forecasting, and market intelligence to support business strategies.
- Continuous improvement and efficiencies in procurement processes.
Regulations, Compliance & Ethics
- Relevant legislation: procurement, data protection, ESG, sustainability.
- Ethical sourcing, social value, human rights, diverse supplier inclusion.
- Contract governance, risk management, internal controls.
- Ethical behaviour, sustainability risks, and organisational policies.
Commercial Contracting & Supplier Management
- Contract principles, terms, conditions, and obligations.
- Supplier performance monitoring and reporting (service, quality, sustainability).
- Contract documentation, award processes, and change/version control.
- Negotiation techniques and supplier relationship management.
Market Analysis & Sourcing
- Market analysis, benchmarking, and sourcing plans.
- Use of selection and award criteria to evaluate supplier bids.
- Financial analysis and cost-saving identification.
- Collaboration between procurement, finance, and other business functions.
Data & Digital Tools
- Use of procurement software and digital tools (e.g. source-to-contract, spend analytics).
- Data analysis to generate recommendations and support decision-making.
- Managing procurement information in line with policy.
- Use of IT for reporting, communication, and presentations.
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
- Managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Facilitating discussions to resolve issues or risks.
- Briefing suppliers and supporting contract awards.
- Working collaboratively across the organisation.
Professional Development & Work Ethic
- Ethical role modelling and responsibility.
- Organised, proactive, and adaptable working style.
- Seeking learning and professional growth opportunities.
- Considering both strategic overview and detailed execution.
It’s a true collaboration between two organisations that have in common creating opportunities and opening doors for young people.
Andy, Director of Buying Operations, TJX Europe