Apprentice Material Controller

Location: Lamesley

Graphic Packaging International - Gateshead Join a global leader in sustainable packaging and build your future with us. At Graphic Packaging International, we create innovative, sustainable packaging solutions for some of the world's most recognised food, beverage, and household brands. Our Gateshead site is a key part of our global manufacturing network, delivering high-quality printed and converted paperboard packaging in a fast-paced, high-performing environment.

Alongside this, our Newburn facility specialises in producing punnets for fresh food applications, offering tailored packaging solutions to our customers. Across both sites, you'll find a supportive, team-driven culture where safety, quality, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do. We're proud to offer employees the opportunity to grow within a global business while making a meaningful impact locally.

Are you looking to start your career in Supply Chain and Materials Management? We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team as an Apprentice Material Controller. Contract Type:
Full Time | Fixed Term Apprenticeship This apprenticeship is offered on a fixed-term basis for the duration of the apprenticeship programme. Upon successful completion, there may be an opportunity to secure a permanent position, subject to business requirements and the availability of suitable vacancies at the time. This role is ideal for someone who is organised, eager to learn, and enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

You will gain hands-on experience while working towards a recognised apprenticeship qualification, developing valuable skills that will support a long-term career in supply chain, planning, and procurement. What You'll Be Doing As an Apprentice Material Controller, you will support the Supply Chain Team in ensuring materials are available to keep production running efficiently. Your responsibilities will include:
Assisting with ordering and scheduling raw materials. Raising purchase orders and maintaining accurate system records. Communicating with suppliers, warehouses, and transport providers. Monitoring delivery schedules and updating internal systems. Supporting stock control and inventory accuracy. Assisting with material transfers and sample requests. Helping resolve invoice and delivery queries. Producing reports and maintaining supply chain data. Working closely with Planning, Production, Operations, and Purchasing teams.

What We're Looking For We are looking for someone who:
Has GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English. Is confident using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. Has excellent communication skills. Is organised with good attention to detail. Can prioritise tasks and manage their time effectively. Has a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Enjoys working as part of a team. Is reliable, flexible, and proactive.

What We Offer A structured apprenticeship programme with on-the-job training. Mentoring and support from experienced Supply Chain professionals. Opportunities to develop skills in purchasing, planning, inventory management, and supplier management. A competitive apprentice salary and benefits package. Career progression opportunities within a global packaging manufacturer. Right to Work Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role now or in the future. Therefore, candidates requiring sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route will not be considered. Our Values We are guided by our core values of:
Integrity – keeping promises and acting honestly. Respect – valuing the skills and opinions of others. Accountability – taking ownership and continuously improving. Relationships – working together and supporting colleagues. Teamwork – achieving goals through collaboration. We are a NO Smoking site. Ready to start your career in Supply Chain? Apply today and become part of our Gateshead team.