TfL spends billions of pounds every year operating the network. It is the Procurement & Commercial (P&C) function who are responsible for planning, sourcing, implementing and managing contractual relationships with suppliers.
This begins with setting a Procurement & Commercial Strategy, running a procurement and proceeding through to contract management via UK and EU compliant polices and procedures. This covers everything from cutting edge technology and travel, to catering, cleaning, CCTV, electricity, trains, highway maintenance, underground line upgrades, station upgrades and much much more.
Underpinning all our activity is the need to support the Mayor of London’s vision to create a better quality of life for all its communities now and in the future. P&C takes the lead on a significant Responsible Procurement agenda focusing on skills, diversity, ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability to help realise that vision.
Sustainability
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, and we ensure that we operate in a sustainable way to protect and regenerate the natural world.
In our P&C function we work to the most excellent, Responsible Procurement guidelines in everything we do and work to ensure that our supply chain follows the same principles
What will I be doing?
As a P&C Graduate, your 2-year development programme will be made up of four 6-month placement rotations. Our aim is to equip you with a broad range of skills and experience you need for your successful career.
We also understand that everyone’s career is different, so every Graduate’s journey is unique and will be shaped by their personal support network. Here’s an idea of what yours could look like:
Year 1
Placement 1 – P&C Utilities – 6 months
Working in the Utilities Team procuring the electricity that runs the London Underground and Rail networks. You’d be working on Early Market Engagement, meeting with potential suppliers to understand how TfL can get the best deal possible on its procurements.
Placement 2 – P&C London Underground Fleet – 6 months
Working within the Fleet Team, procuring specialist parts to keep the trains running on the network. This could include train wheels, motors and doors. Without this vital work, trains could be taken out of action which causes delays to customers.
Year 2
Placement 3 – P&C IT – 6 months
Working on the Contract Management of TfL’s Microsoft contract to ensure 30,000 users have access to all the systems they need to do their jobs effectively. You’d also be working on the procurement of our bus intelligence systems that help tell our passengers when their buses are going to arrive.
Placement 4 – P&C Capital Highways – 6 months
Contract management of surface transport contracts such as Cycle Hire, Taxi & Private Hire and the Woolwich Ferry, and supporting the procurement of other contracts and services.
You’ll be encouraged to gain well-rounded experience across all the P&C departments, with support and guidance from your sponsor and scheme leader who will help you in identifying the most suitable placements for you as an individual. Graduates are encouraged to tailor the scheme to suit them and seek placement opportunities with senior managers within P&C.
Where can this career take me?
At the end of your scheme, you’ll have achieved both Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Diploma and Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply and will roll-off into an Assistant Commercial Manager role in your desired part of the P&C function. TfL will then continue to fund your sponsorship for an additional final year to complete the CIPS Level 6, therefore becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS).
In five years, you can expect to have a well-established career as a Commercial Manager, with a succession plan to Senior Commercial Manager.
What training and support will you get?
Our award-winning teams will support your ongoing development, through a wide range of on-the-job practical experience and placements. We'll support your professional development through a combination of training, mentoring, and networking.
You'll also receive one-to-one guidance throughout the programme from your:
- Placement manager: Responsible for your day-to-day management and support with your development
- Scheme sponsor: A senior manager who acts as a technical and professional adviser and has line manager responsibility
- Buddy: Usually, an apprentice or graduate who gives support to you and ensure that you feel welcomed in the organisation
- Development adviser: Supports your professional development through providing career coaching and career progression at TfL
What do we look for?
Our core values are extremely important to us, and we desire candidates who are:
- Caring about our colleagues, our customers and our work
- Open to each other, to new ideas and to working together
- Adaptable to diverse needs and willing to innovate
What qualifications will I gain?
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Diploma and Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
Salary
£31,000, rising to £32,250 in the second year.
Location
London/ Hybrid – 50% in the office; 50% working from home
Hybrid working within this role enables a balance of 50 per cent of time split between the office and home over a 4-week period. Hybrid working arrangements can evolve subject to business requirements.
What we offer
You will enjoy excellent benefits and scope to grow. Rewards vary according to the business area but mostly include:
- Free travel on the TfL network for you and a nominee who lives in the same household
- Final salary pension scheme
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel
- 30 days Annual leave plus public and bank holidays
- Private healthcare discounted scheme
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme
- Retail, health, leisure and travel offers & many more
Duration
2 years
Entry requirements
A minimum of 2:2 honours degree in any subject.
Start date:
8th September 2025
Application process
The application process consists of 5 steps, including online assessments which will need to be completed within an allocated time frame. We highly recommend that you read through this document thoroughly so that you can familiarise yourself with the process.
