Nissan Purchasing Graduate Scheme

Nissan Motor Corporation

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

Nissan is recruiting graduates to join its Purchasing team, with positions based at the Sunderland plant (NMUK) or the European Technical Centre in Cranfield (NTCE). Successful candidates will be placed in either Direct Purchasing or Indirect Purchasing, depending on business needs. Direct Purchasing sources components for current and new vehicle models; Indirect Purchasing works with suppliers supporting the wider business, including machinery, equipment, facilities, capital expenditure and logistics.

This role involves managing multiple workstreams and taking responsibility from the outset, while working with suppliers and collaborating across Nissan. The position offers UK and international travel, broad exposure to Nissan’s operations, and support through a comprehensive training and mentoring programme. Training covers business and soft skills, with access to learning platforms and on-the-job training. Employees can also take part in placement-specific support groups and wellbeing and CSR engagement initiatives.

The successful candidate is expected to commence employment in January 2027. This is a fixed-term position; visa sponsorship is not available for its duration. Sponsorship may only be available if the role becomes permanent in January 2029. Applicants must already have an independent right to work in the UK for the full fixed-term period.

Requirements

• Hold or expect to achieve an undergraduate or postgraduate degree graded 2:1 or above in a relevant field.
• Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to problem-solving.
• Communication and negotiation skills to collaborate with people and departments across the business.
• Ability to work closely with a team, manage multiple workstreams, manage time effectively and take a proactive approach.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Willingness to travel and be geographically mobile.
• Existing and independent right to work in the UK for the duration of the fixed-term position.
• Include a CV with the application.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain supplier relationships to support competitive costing for high-quality parts.
• Manage day-to-day and project costs, analyse quotes, negotiate contracts and track expenditure related to parts and equipment in the UK and elsewhere.
• Work on cost-reduction projects and manage design changes for vehicle model development.
• Collaborate with Nissan teams including Design, Supply Chain, Finance and Engineering to support supply-chain standards and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct cost analysis and internal reporting, and provide project-specific insights to stakeholders to support decisions.
• Travel to supplier sites to manage relationships, review efficiency and operations, and check adherence to Nissan quality standards.
• Source vehicle parts, equipment and services, and negotiate with suppliers on Nissan’s behalf.

Benefits

• Comprehensive career development, learning and training opportunities, including mentoring and access to learning platforms.
• Competitive base salary starting at £35,967.91.
• Remote working policy allowing a maximum of two days per week working from home.
• Flexible working options and manager-approved flexible hour adjustments.
• 26 days of holiday plus bank holidays.
• Free private medical cover.
• Nissan car ownership and finance scheme.
• Free onsite parking and subsidised restaurant.
• Onsite gym facilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level