Procurement Graduate at Centrica

Procurement Graduate

George Tee

Finance

Placement (10 Months+)

Centrica

Can you tell us about your experiences on the programme so far?

I am on the Procurement and Supply Chain graduate scheme, which involves doing three eight-month rotations in different parts of the business. I spent my first eight months in the Supply Chain Risk team in Windsor, helping to identify and mitigate sources of financial and corporate and social responsibility risk associated with our supply chain. For my second rotation, I moved into our Exploration and Production division, which is where I am today.

What is your current role?

I work in Aberdeen as part of our Operations and Maintenance procurement team, which is responsible for procuring everything that’s needed for the ongoing operations of oil and gas exploration projects in the UK. I have worked on a variety of projects so far, in areas including geology and mechanical maintenance. I have also worked on projects relating to the chemicals that are used to produce oil and gas on our onshore and offshore assets.

What are you enjoying most about being on the graduate programme?

One aspect I really like is the variety of experiences on offer. In my current role, I might be leading negotiations with a supplier one day and presenting one of my procurement strategies to senior managers the next. The ownership you get as a graduate is also very empowering. You’re given the responsibility to lead your own projects and make a real difference, which is a great opportunity at such an early stage of your career.

Any significant highlights so far?

Within my first six months, I led the design and implementation of an online tool that assesses our suppliers for social, economic and environmental risks. The tool is now being used by the entire procurement division and is critical to ensuring our £3.5 billion annual budget is spent responsibly.

How would you describe the Centrica culture?

Everyone in the organisation tries to live by our values, which are Care, Collaboration, Courage, Delivery and Agility. I would also say that Centrica is a very supportive business, especially when it comes to its graduate employees.

What advice would you give to somebody thinking of applying?

Two things. Firstly, make sure you understand Centrica as an organisation and can demonstrate an interest in some of its key business areas. Secondly, remember to be yourself in your interview and assessment centre. It’s your individual personality and your ability to work with others that Centrica want to see.