Procurement & Commercial Graduate Scheme - Saving London Money
CIPS Level 4, 5 & 6
Salary
£29,500
Location
London/Hybrid – 50% in the office; 50% working from home
This role offers hybrid working arrangements, with a balance of 50% of time split between the office and home over a 4-week period. Hybrid arrangements may evolve based on business requirements.
What is offered
This position offers excellent benefits and opportunities for growth. Rewards vary by business area but typically include:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the successful candidate and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- Final salary pension scheme.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- 30 days of annual leave plus public and bank holidays.
- Discounted private healthcare scheme.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Retail, health, leisure, and travel offers, among others.
Duration
2 years
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in any subject.
Proposed Start Date
8th September 2025
Job Overview
TfL spends billions annually operating its network, with the Procurement & Commercial (P&C) function responsible for planning, sourcing, implementing, and managing contractual relationships with suppliers.
This work begins with setting a Procurement & Commercial Strategy, running procurements, and managing contracts through UK and EU-compliant policies and procedures. The scope of responsibility includes areas such as cutting-edge technology, travel, catering, cleaning, CCTV, electricity, trains, highway maintenance, and underground line and station upgrades.
All activities align with the Mayor of London’s vision to improve quality of life for London’s communities now and in the future. P&C leads a significant Responsible Procurement agenda, focusing on skills, diversity, ethical sourcing, and environmental sustainability to help realise this vision.
Sustainability
Sustainability is integral to TfL’s ethos, ensuring operations protect and regenerate the natural world.
Within the P&C function, strict adherence to Responsible Procurement guidelines ensures that the supply chain operates under the same principles.
Responsibilities
This 2-year development programme comprises four 6-month placement rotations, designed to provide a broad range of skills and experience. Every graduate’s journey is unique, supported by a personal network to shape their career.
Year 1:
- Placement 1 – P&C Utilities (6 months): Working with the Utilities Team to procure electricity for the London Underground and Rail networks. Responsibilities include Early Market Engagement and meeting potential suppliers to secure the best deals for TfL.
- Placement 2 – P&C London Underground Fleet (6 months): Supporting the Fleet Team in procuring specialist parts, such as train wheels, motors, and doors, to keep trains operational and prevent customer delays.
Year 2:
- Placement 3 – P&C IT (6 months): Managing TfL’s Microsoft contract to ensure 30,000 users have access to necessary systems. Involves procurement of bus intelligence systems for passenger convenience.
- Placement 4 – P&C Capital Highways (6 months): Managing surface transport contracts such as Cycle Hire, Taxi & Private Hire, and the Woolwich Ferry, while supporting other procurements and services.
Graduates are encouraged to gain comprehensive experience across all P&C departments, with support from their sponsor and scheme leader to identify the most suitable placements. Opportunities to tailor the scheme by seeking placements with senior P&C managers are also available.
Career Progression
Upon completing the scheme, graduates will have achieved both the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Diploma and Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply. Graduates will transition into Assistant Commercial Manager roles in their desired P&C areas.
TfL will continue sponsorship for an additional year to complete the CIPS Level 6 qualification, enabling graduates to become Members of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS).
Within five years, graduates can expect to have established careers as Commercial Managers, with clear pathways to Senior Commercial Manager positions.
Training and Support
The graduate programme includes comprehensive on-the-job practical experience and placements. Professional development is supported through training, mentoring, and networking.
Support Includes:
- Placement Manager: Provides day-to-day management and development support.
- Scheme Sponsor: A senior manager offering technical and professional advice and acting as the line manager.
- Buddy: Typically an apprentice or graduate, providing additional support to help new hires feel welcomed.
- Development Adviser: Offers career coaching and guidance for progression within TfL.
Desired Qualities
Candidates should align with TfL’s core values, including:
- Caring about colleagues, customers, and their work.
- Openness to new ideas, collaboration, and innovation.
- Adaptability to diverse needs and a willingness to innovate.
Assessment Process
Candidates will receive detailed information and support throughout each stage of the assessment process.
Further guidance is available on the TfL website: https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
Qualifications Gained
Successful graduates will achieve:
- Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Diploma.
- CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.