Category Specialist Apprentice

Closing Date

Job Title: Category Specialist Apprentice

Location: Durrington (2–3 days per week in the office, with the remainder working from home)
Contract Type: 2 year FTC

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and qualification, you’ll be eligible to apply for a permanent role within the Procurement team
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday–Friday
Salary: £24,288 per annum

Overview

We’re excited to offer an opportunity for an Apprentice Category Specialists to join Southern Water’s dynamic Procurement team based in our Durrington office.

As part of one of the largest procurement teams in the South East, this role is ideal for individuals who are curious about data, commercial strategy, and making a real impact on business outcomes.

You’ll work alongside experienced procurement professionals to support sourcing, supplier management, stakeholder engagement, and commercial decision-making in the Corporate Business Services Categories (which includes Customer, Facilities Management, Professional Services & Human Resources). With guidance from your mentor and line manager, you’ll develop the skills and experience needed to grow into a confident Category Specialist—helping shape the future of our supply chain strategy.

What You’ll Be Doing

As an Apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience in areas such as:

• Supporting the development and delivery of category strategies
• Gathering and analysing data to inform procurement decisions
• Assisting with procurement events and negotiations
• Contributing to contract management and supplier engagement
• Collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers to deliver value
• Participating in supplier performance reviews and improvement initiatives
• Planning and coordinating procurement activities using tools like MS Project or Gantt charts

Training and Development

This apprenticeship combines classroom learning with real-world experience, giving you a strong foundation in procurement and category management. You’ll build skills in:

• Market analysis and commercial strategy
• Contract negotiation and supplier relationship management
• Data-driven decision-making
• Stakeholder engagement
• Procurement systems and tools

Upon completion, you’ll achieve a Level 4 CIPS qualification and be well-prepared to take the next step in your career.

Progression Opportunities

This exciting apprenticeship is more than just a two-year programme: it’s a stepping stone to a long-term career with Southern Water. We’re looking for individuals who want to grow with us, and we’re committed to supporting your development beyond the apprenticeship.

We’re committed to helping you grow.

Successful apprentices will have opportunities to progress within the department, with career paths shaped around your strengths, interests, and ambitions.

About You

We’re looking for individuals who are:

• Curious, adaptable, and eager to learn
• Strong communicators and team players
• Comfortable with IT systems and quick to pick up new tools
• Interested in supply chains, procurement, or business strategy
• Organised, self-motivated, and detail-oriented

You’ll need to have:

• GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above) in Maths and English (or equivalent)
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• An interest in commercial areas such as sales, negotiation, or project planning

No prior experience is required. Whether you're starting your career or making a change, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you’re passionate about commercial strategy and eager to learn, we’ll support you every step of the way.