Purchasing Apprentice (Business Admin) - Carlisle Brass

Apprenticeship Description

About Carlisle Brass

We are one of the UK’s most recognised architectural hardware brands, synonymous with architectural ironmongers, builders’ merchants, and major DIY retailers since 1986. 

Located in Cumbria, home of the English Lake District, we operate a next day service, nationwide and beyond. We are passionate about our products, people, and customers.

Part of the ASSA ABLOY group, the global leader in access solutions.

Purpose of the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to start your career in purchasing and supply chain.

As a Purchasing Apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment while developing valuable skills in planning, data management and supplier coordination. You’ll work closely with experienced professionals and play a key role in supporting the smooth running of our purchasing operations.

This role supports day-to-day planning and purchasing, helping to ensure accurate information flow, timely updates, and smooth coordination between departments, suppliers and operations. 

This is a development role designed to build knowledge of purchasing systems while contributing positively to team performance and business needs. The Purchasing Apprentice will have essential relationships with team members and other internal departments such as sales.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Planning Support

• Support the Purchasing team with day-to-day administrative tasks and system updates.

• Assist with maintaining accurate purchasing data within systems (e.g., Corserine).

• Raise purchase orders and amend due dates as instructed.

• Retrieve information relating to stock levels, sales data and demand.

Systems & Data Administration

• Update Excel spreadsheets and documentation accurately and in a timely manner. 

• Provide general office administrative support to the department.

• Assist other team members, including outside of the department, when required.

Stock & Supply Chain Activity 

• Support invoice query investigations.

• Chase supplier delivery dates and communicate updates to relevant stakeholders and systems.

• Support purchasing administration when required. 

• Support outside process tracking and information updates. 

Communication & Coordination

• Work closely with teams across purchasing, sales, customer service, finance and operations.

• Build strong working relationships across the business.

General Administration & Team Support

• Maintain accurate filing systems, both electronic and paper based.  

• Provide general office administrative support to the department.

• Assist other team members, including outside of the department, when required.

• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the role and development needs.

Skills, Competencies, Qualifications and Personal Experience 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Essential

• Good IT skills, Microsoft Excel and Word.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Confident communicator, able to liaise with colleagues at all levels.

• Able to work effectively as part of a team and on own initiative.

• Well organised with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

• Adaptable and responsive to change.

• Proactive approach with a strong willingness to learn and develop.

• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.

• Willing to work with various departments and does not work in a silo situation. 

Desirable

• Interest in purchasing and supply chain environments.

• Previous experience in an office or administrative role (not essential).

• Basic awareness of ERP or stock control systems (training will be provided).

• An inquisitive mind and a preference for prevention rather than cure. 

What you’ll learn includes:

• Using IT systems and spreadsheets (Excel, ERP systems)

• Producing accurate records, reports, and documentation

• Supporting business operations across multiple departments

• Communicating confidently with internal and external stakeholders

• Managing priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Professional behaviours such as attention to detail, ownership, and adaptability

This standard aligns strongly with the role’s focus on:

• Office administration

• Excel and system updates

• ERP data accuracy

• Cross department communication

• Planning and purchasing support

Qualifications Required

Maths & English GCSE grade 4 / C or equivalent qualification

Applications may close earlier if a suitable candidate has been found.