Supply Chain Manager

MRD Recruitment; Bathgate; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing firm in West Lothian is seeking a dynamic Supply Chain Manager to enhance supply chain excellence. You will lead a high-performing team and oversee procurement, inventory management, and logistics to ensure efficient operations. The ideal candidate should have over 5 years of relevant experience in a leadership role and hold a relevant qualification in Supply Chain Management. This position offers a significant opportunity for growth and impact within the company.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a supply chain leadership role.
• Proven Procurement and Warehouse Management experience.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships and monitor supplier performance.
• Develop long-term supply chain strategies and forecast demand.
• Define and track key performance indicators and drive continuous improvements.
• Balance material flow with demand and maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Lead, coach, and develop the supply chain team aligned with company strategy.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal departments on planning and forecasting.
• Proactively identify supply chain risks and implement controls.

Skills

Problem Solving

Planning & Organising

Initiative & Leadership

Strategic Thinking

People Management

Communication & Collaboration

Analytical Thinking

Teamwork

Education

Relevant qualification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., CIPS)

Job description

MRD Recruitment is actively hiring a Supply Chain Manager on behalf of our leading manufacturing client based in West Lothian. This is a key leadership position responsible for the efficient and cost-effective flow of goods from supplier to customer, including sourcing, procurement, inventory management, and delivery.

As Supply Chain Manager, you will lead a high-performing team across Planning, Procurement, and Logistics, ensuring smooth operations that support both production and aftermarket (spares) demands. The role is integral to achieving strategic business goals through optimal inventory control, cost management, supplier performance, and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships. Negotiate contracts to reduce costs while meeting quality and delivery expectations. Monitor supplier performance through KPIs.
• Develop long-term supply chain strategies. Forecast demand for production and spares, ensuring alignment with overall business plans.
• Define and track key performance indicators. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain.
• Balance material flow with demand. Maintain optimal inventory levels to support production while minimising working capital.
• Lead, coach, and develop the supply chain team. Align departmental and individual objectives with company strategy.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives across purchasing, planning, and logistics.
• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., Sales, Production, Finance) on S&OP, planning, and forecasting to ensure supply chain supports business goals.
• Proactively identify supply chain risks and implement controls to ensure continuity of supply.

Required Education & Experience

• Relevant qualification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., CIPS)
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a supply chain leadership role
• Proven Procurement and Warehouse Management experience

Core Competencies

• Problem Solving Analyses complex issues, develops actionable solutions, and consults with stakeholders when needed
• Planning & Organising Prioritises tasks effectively and ensures seamless information flow
• Initiative & Leadership Self-starter with a continuous improvement mindset; capable of driving change and leading by example
• Strategic Thinking Develops and adapts long‑term strategies aligned with company goals
• People Management Delegates effectively, sets expectations, monitors performance, and fosters staff growth
• Communication & Collaboration Strong communicator across all levels, both internally and externally
• Analytical Thinking Gathers and interprets complex data to guide decision‑making
• Teamwork Supports team success and contributes positively to group dynamics

This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward‑thinking business at a critical time of growth and transformation. If you are a dynamic, results‑driven leader with a passion for supply chain excellence, we'd love to hear from you.