Supply Chain Manager

ZipRecruiter; Kettering; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive lubricant distributor in the UK is seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to take ownership of multiple projects within their operations. This role involves inventory management, supplier negotiations, and logistics coordination, contributing significantly to operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in supply chain or logistics, with strong analytical and communication skills. Competitive salary of £45,000 - £65,000 plus benefits.

Benefits

Annual leave of 23 days plus bank holidays

Life insurance equivalent to 3x salary

Private medical insurance

Company pension

Employee discount

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a supply chain, purchasing, or logistics role.
• Strong background in inventory control and stock optimisation.
• Hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain optimal stock levels and analyze purchase orders.
• Manage purchasing activities with key suppliers.
• Coordinate inbound international freight and ensure timely delivery.

Skills

Inventory control

Demand forecasting

Strong negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

8+ years experience in supply chain or logistics

Tools

ERP systems (NetSuite/SAP/MS Dynamics)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Description

About Us:

MANNOL UK & IRELANDis the official distributor of high-quality automotive oils, lubricants, and car care products across the UK and Ireland. We offer German-engineered solutions for personal, commercial, and industrial vehicles. Our range includes engine oils, gear oils, additives, and car care products designed for optimal performance and protection.

We are in a transformational phase,setting new benchmarks in operational excellence, streamlining our supply chain, and delivering a customer-centric service experience.

Why us?

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in our journey towards operational excellence. You will take ownership of multiple projects within our supply chain operations and have a significant impact on how we shape and deliver best-in-class performance. If this opportunity aligns with what you’re looking for, we would be delighted to receive your application and speak with you in person. You will collaborate directly with the leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Inventory & Stock Management

• Maintain optimal stock levels across all SKUs and warehouse locations
• Monitor and analyze purchase orders against sales trends and forecasts
• Categorise, manage and analyse inventory by product life cycle: slow movers, top sellers, etc.
• Ensure accurate product placement and reduce obsolete or excess stock

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Manage purchasing activities with key suppliers
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times, and delivery schedules
• Evaluate supplier performance and maintain strong long-term relationships
• Continuously assess and refine product selection to align with market trends and customer needs

Shipping & Logistics

• Coordinate inbound international freight with shipping lines such as MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd
• Negotiate container rates and optimise shipping schedules and routes
• Ensure timely and accurate customs clearance, documentation, and delivery
• Liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and internal warehouse teams

Reporting & Analysis

• Develop and maintain insightful reports on key inventory metrics, supplier performance, and shipping efficiency using our ERP system, Microsoft Excel, and business intelligence tools.
• Provide actionable insights based on customer buying patterns and stock turnover
• Provide data-driven insights and analytics to support strategic decision-making

Requirements

• Proven experience (8+ years) in a supply chain, purchasing, or logistics roles within the import/export or wholesale distribution sector
• Strong background in inventory control, demand forecasting, and stock optimisation
• Demonstrated ability and experience in managing international purchasing and negotiate with global shipping providers
• Proficient with ERP systems (e.g.: NetSuite/SAP/MS Dynamics, MintSoft, Unleashed, Odoo, Cin7) and Excel-based or BI tool-based data analysis
• Highly organised, analytical, and proactive with strong commercial awareness
• Hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Automotive or lubricants sector experience is a plus

What We Offer

• A key leadership role in a growing and dynamic business
• Opportunity to shape and modernise the supply chain strategy
• Competitive salary and benefits
• A collaborative and forward-thinking work environment

Additional Information

Working Hours:40 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 9am - 5:30pm (incl. 30 minutes lunch break)

Start Date: As soon as possible

As part of our drive to make Mannol UK a great place to work. We are having dedicated learning and development programmes which are open to every employee to give you the opportunity to shape your own future within logistics and continue to work in an environment where team culture thrives.

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: Holiday Entitlement of 23 days, plus of bank holidays.
• Salary: £45,000 - £65,000 (depending on skill & experience).
• Life insurance: 3x of the salary
• Private medical insurance
• Work place pension
• Employee discount

If you are looking for your next career opportunity send us your application and become a part of Mannol UK!

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday to Friday

: English (required)

Work Location: In person

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person