Supply Chain Director

ZipRecruiter; Brighton; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment platform is seeking an experienced Strategic Purchasing leader to define and drive the overall commodity strategy, optimizing value and aligning supply chain with company objectives. This role requires 10+ years of experience in supply chain management, including people management and process leadership. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and be proficient in ERP systems. The position involves collaboration with senior leadership and travel up to 50%.

Qualifications

• 10+ years supply chain experience in a complex manufacturing environment.
• 10+ years people management experience in supply chain or related function.
• Proven experience leading SIOP/S&OP processes across multiple sites.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a purchasing strategy that optimizes value.
• Partner with leadership to align supply chain with company objectives.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and mentorship to the Purchasing team.

Skills

Leadership of high-performing teams

Excellent problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Strong negotiation skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or related field

MBA or Master’s in Engineering/Supply Chain

CPIM/APICS certification

Tools

ERP systems

Project management software

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Strategic Purchasing leader to define and drive overall commodity strategy, supplier development, and performance management. This role collaborates with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to deliver on company goals, customer needs, and market opportunities while ensuring compliance with quality standards and contract obligations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a purchasing strategy that optimizes value, supports production, and drives aftermarket program success
• Partner with executive and senior leadership to align supply chain with company objectives
• Provide leadership, coaching, and mentorship to the Purchasing team in commodity management and supplier development
• Support proposal development, strategic planning, and budgeting initiatives
• Lead cross-functional project teams with internal and external stakeholders
• Drive SIOP/S&OP across multiple sites and business units
• Champion change management and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or related field
• 10+ years supply chain experience in a complex, multinational manufacturing environment
• 10+ years people management experience in supply chain or related function
• Proven experience leading SIOP/S&OP processes across multiple sites
• Strong change management and negotiation skills
• Solid understanding of ERP systems
• MBA or Master’s in Engineering/Supply Chain
• Aerospace experience, including mergers & acquisitions
• CPIM/APICS certification
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or TQM
• Understanding of aerospace interior systems

Competencies

• Strategic leadership and ability to build consensus across the organization
• Strong organizational savvy with proven ability to navigate complex environments
• Demonstrated personal responsibility, accountability, and decision-making skills

Skills & Abilities

• Leadership of high-performing teams with strong coaching and mentoring abilities
• Excellent problem-solving, influencing, and relationship-building skills
• Strong communication and executive presentation skills
• Proficiency with ERP, project management, and business software tools
• Willingness to travel up to 50% and work flexibly as needed