A new apprenticeship programme is set to tackle skill shortages in the procurement sector.

North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has appointed seven apprentices as part of its regional procurement apprenticeship programme.

The programme was launched to address skill shortages in the procurement sector within the region.

NEPO, which is governed by 12 local authorities, is the region's leading public procurement provider.

The organisation, along with local authorities, identified the need to further invest in nurturing future procurement talent due to the expanding need for its services and the ongoing digital transformation of the procurement sector.

The apprentices will benefit from training experience complementary to their training syllabus and provide a range of qualifications including Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Apprenticeship (includes Level 4 CIPS Diploma), CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement & Supply, and Professional Diploma Level 6.

Nicola Shelley, managing director of NEPO, said: "We recognise the growing need for skilled procurement professionals in the region, and I am delighted that together with the 12 local authorities we have created a programme which we are confident will bring new skills and future talent to the region.

"The initial recruitment stage has been a great success as we have welcomed seven new apprentices as part of the initiative."