GPGS Cohort 2008 Induction Week

The new GPGS graduate trainees have been busy since starting the scheme completing their induction - an introduction to Whitehall and Westminster, as well as the first module of the Certificate of Competence in Purchasing and Supply. Arvinder, Keith, Laura M, Henry, Edward, Laura C, Paul, Mani, Jonathan and Charlotte were welcomed into the civil service by Sir Gus O'Donnell, Cabinet Secretary who said:
 
"In order to continue to deliver world-class public services, it is important to ensure the Civil Service is attracting outside talent, and that it provides the right environment to harness, foster and sustain this talent. The GPGS is a great opportunity for those seeking a career in procurement, and the scheme aims to create a potential source of future Commercial Directors in departments."

Commenting on the scheme, OGC CEO and Head of the GPS Nigel Smith said:

"This scheme brings in additional talent to join the large group of procurement professionals already operating across the public sector, who are delivering on the Government's agenda to transform the way in which it handles procurement.

"This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of the GPS and demonstrates a commitment to learning and development in the service. I am committed to investing in this graduate programme as one of a number of initiatives to create a sustainable balance of appropriately skilled and suitably managed procurement professionals, to match the growing scale and complexity of the Government's delivery agenda."

When asked what he was enjoying so far about the new role, Henry at the Department for Transport said:

"The nature and scope of what you can be involved in. Procurements can vary from consultancy to delivering a new rail franchise. The appeal for me lies in the tangibility of seeing what you have been involved in especially in regard to large projects."

GPS are already making preparations for a third intake in 2009 and would like to talk to anyone interested in taking a graduate trainee. Please contact Alex Holden, the Scheme Manager, for an informal discussion on 01603 704 553.