Head of Materials and Logistics

GE Renewable Energy Power and Aviation; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy firm in Cheltenham is seeking a Head of Materials and Logistics to oversee the complete flow of materials. The role involves team leadership, compliance with customs regulations, and budget management for packaging and freight. Candidates should possess extensive materials planning experience and strong leadership skills within a matrix environment. This position emphasizes continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Benefits

Flexible benefits plan

Pension

Bonus

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Materials Planning & Execution.
• Proven expertise in LEAN processes and project management.
• Strong leadership skills in a matrix environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team managing materials flow from receipt to shipping.
• Ensure compliance with customs and regulatory requirements.
• Manage budgets related to packaging and freight.

Skills

Leadership

LEAN processes

Project management

Operational judgment

Analytical skills

Job description

Job Description Summary

As the Head of Materials and Logistics for our Cheltenham site, you will lead a dynamic team responsible for managing the end-to-end flow of materials, including receiving, warehousing, releasing materials into production, and shipping to external customers.

Your leadership will directly impact the team's ability to achieve service, quality, and timeliness objectives, ensuring operational excellence and customer satisfaction. The role requires a high level of operational judgment to navigate complex challenges and deliver results within the framework of operating policy objectives. While the role offers moderate autonomy, it demands strategic decision-making and effective team management to drive continuous improvement and achieve business goals.

GE Aerospace Cheltenham specialises in the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced avionics systems and components for the aerospace industry. The site is known for its expertise in providing cutting-edge solutions for commercial, military, and business aviation applications.

Job Description

Production Planning and Material Management

• Collaborate closely with the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) team to develop and execute production plans that align with target achievements.
• Oversee the receipt, classification, stocking, and delivery of incoming goods and components in line with production schedules.
• Ensure accurate ERP system updates, maintain optimal stocking conditions, and establish clear visibility of inventory locations.

Team Leadership

• Manage small to medium-sized teams, including senior professionals and other team members, leveraging specialized knowledge within the function.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to drive team performance and development.

Customs Compliance and Optimization

• Ensure the accuracy of all customs operations, including Duty Suspension, Valuation Activities, and HTS Classifications.
• Lead initiatives to improve customs regimes and identify financial opportunities for cost savings.

Audit and Regulatory Compliance

• Lead and execute internal and external audits to ensure compliance with HMRC / UK Government regulations, GE Customs Enterprise Standards, and internal quality procedures.

Budget and Cost Management

• Manage budgets and associated expenditures related to packaging and freight.
• Identify and implement cost reduction projects to optimize logistics and packaging expenses.

Strategic Influence and Policy Development

• Contribute to the development of strategies for materials and logistics operations, including resource allocation and policy formulation.
• Influence decision-making and drive improvements in processes, products, and services.

Operational Excellence

• Apply FLIGHT DECK principles (GE Aerospace's proprietary lean operating model) and daily management practices to address operational challenges and achieve performance goals.
• Enhance material visual management within warehouse and logistics operations.

Problem‑Solving and Decision‑Making

• Use high levels of judgment to make decisions and address complex operational, product management, manufacturing, technology, or engineering challenges.
• Assess the quality of information, ask pertinent questions, and provide innovative solutions to problems outside of established parameters.

Collaboration and Communication

• Utilize multiple internal and external sources to inform decision‑making and drive results.
• Communicate complex concepts effectively and influence stakeholders to consider alternative perspectives.
• Guide and mentor others to develop their skills and capabilities in materials and logistics.

Project Leadership

• Lead functional teams or projects with minimal resource requirements, risk, and complexity.
• Document, plan, market, and execute programs while identifying and addressing procedural gaps.

Industry Awareness

• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to continuously improve operations and enhance work outcomes.

Required Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Materials Planning & Execution, Manufacturing & Warehouse Operations, and Inventory Management.
• Proven expertise in LEAN processes, project management, and logistics.
• Demonstrated LEAN leadership, including implementation of Standard Work, Daily Management, and Visual Management tools.

Desirable Characteristics

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively lead and motivate teams.
• Experience working in a complex matrix environment, supporting multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational and analytical skills, with a proven ability to analyse and resolve problems.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written, to convey complex concepts and influence decision‑making.
• Established project management skills, with a track record of successfully leading programs and projects.
• Ability to develop and manage processes, identify procedural gaps, and implement improvements.
• Experience in mentoring and developing materials and logistics professionals.
• Proven ability to build strong working relationships across all levels of the organisation.

Total Reward

At GE Aerospace we understand the importance of Total Reward. Our flexible benefits plan, called FlexChoice, gives you freedom, choice and flexibility in the way you receive your benefits, as well as giving you the opportunity to make savings where possible.

• Pension
• Bonus
• Life Assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical cover

Security Clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. Please note that in the event that BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may not be eligible for the role and / or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security. Please see the link below for further details regarding the requirements for BPSS clearance : BPSS

Right to Work

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, under the applicable UK immigration rules as may be in place from time to time, it may be that candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK may not be appointed to a post if a suitably qualified, experienced and skilled candidate who does not require sponsorship is available to take up the post. For further information please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

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Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided : No