Supply Chain Manager | Job in Hertfordshire

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Supply Chain Manager to join our dedicated team in the East of England. In this role, you will play a critical part in ensuring the smooth operation of our supply chain functions, contributing significantly to our overall business success. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and implementing effective strategies to optimize the organization's supply chain operations
• Overseeing procurement activities, ensuring timely delivery of goods at competitive prices
• Coordinating with internal teams and external vendors for efficient inventory management
• Analyzing and reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement in our supply chain processes
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to align supply chain strategies with business objectives
• Implementing risk mitigation strategies to protect the organization from potential supply chain disruptions The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in supply chain management with proven experience in leading and developing high-performing teams. Excellent analytical skills, strategic thinking, and a results-driven mindset are essential for this role. Candidates must also have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. Join us and make an impact in our exciting journey towards supply chain excellence! We look forward to hearing from you.

Role Insights

In this dynamic and challenging role as a Supply Chain Manager in the East of England, you will be an integral member of our organization, driving the strategic planning and management of our supply chain operations to achieve operational excellence.

*Responsibilities: *

• Develop and implement effective supply chain strategies that align with the overall business objectives and ensure the efficient flow of goods from suppliers to customers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, logistics, manufacturing, and finance, to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Analyze market trends, economic indicators, and customer requirements to forecast demand accurately and maintain a reliable inventory level.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate favorable contracts, manage risk, and ensure consistent quality and delivery.
• Implement technology solutions to enhance supply chain visibility, optimize logistics, and improve data-driven decision making.
• Lead supply chain projects, including implementing continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage budgets, set performance targets, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive operational excellence and cost savings.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements to maintain a competitive edge and ensure compliance.
• Provide strategic input to senior leadership regarding the supply chain's impact on overall business strategy and performance.

*Qualifications: *

• A bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field is required; an advanced degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in supply chain management with a strong focus on strategic planning and operational excellence.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive projects to successful completion.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data to make informed decisions.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using supply chain management software and tools.
• Knowledge of relevant industry trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and motivate team members to achieve operational excellence.
• Flexibility to travel as needed to meet with suppliers and attend conferences or training sessions. By joining our organization as a Supply Chain Manager in the East of England, you will have the opportunity to contribute to our success while advancing your career in a dynamic and challenging environment. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development. If you are passionate about supply chain management and ready to make a significant impact we encourage you to apply today!

Required Skills

*Required Skills (Supply Chain Manager) - East of England *

In this critical role within our organisation we seek a seasoned Supply Chain Manager to lead our supply chain operations, ensuring seamless flow of goods from supplier to customer while optimising costs and maximising efficiency. Here's what we're looking for:

*Strategic Planning & Management: *

Demonstrate the ability to develop comprehensive supply chain strategies that align with organisational objectives. You should be adept at managing resources effectively, implementing plans, and monitoring progress.

• *Supplier Relationship Management:

Cultivate strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure continuous supply of quality products at competitive prices. Negotiation skills are essential for securing favourable terms and conditions.

• *Logistics & Transportation:

Possess a deep understanding of logistics principles and have experience in managing the transportation of goods. This includes optimising shipping routes, modes of transport, and negotiating with carriers to reduce costs.

• *Inventory Management:

Demonstrate proficiency in managing inventory levels to minimise stockouts and excess stock, using techniques such as ABC analysis, lead time demand analysis, and safety stock management.

• *Technological Proficiency:

Familiarity with supply chain management software and systems is essential. You should be able to leverage technology to improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency across the supply chain.

• *Risk Management:

Identify potential risks within the supply chain and develop contingency plans to mitigate their impact on business operations. This includes managing disruptions caused by supplier failures, transportation issues, or unexpected events.

• *Leadership & Communication:

Lead a team of supply chain professionals effectively, providing guidance, motivation, and resources necessary for success. Strong communication skills are essential for liaising with various departments within the organisation and external stakeholders.

• *Problem-Solving Skills:

Demonstrate the ability to analyse complex situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions. This includes analysing data, making informed decisions, and implementing corrective actions as necessary.

• *Continuous Improvement Mindset:

Embrace a culture of continuous improvement by seeking out opportunities for process optimisation, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.

• *Regulatory Compliance:

Ensure that all aspects of the supply chain comply with relevant local, national, and international regulations, including those related to safety, environmental protection, and customs procedures. In this role, you will have the opportunity to drive our supply chain operations forward and contribute significantly to the success of our organisation in the East of England. We look forward to welcoming a passionate and skilled Supply Chain Manager to our team!

Desired Candidate

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Supply Chain Manager to join our team in the East of England. This is a fantastic opportunity for a seasoned professional with a proven track record in managing complex supply chains and driving operational excellence.

*Responsibilities: *

• Develop, implement, and manage strategic and tactical plans to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization's supply chain.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration between procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and distribution functions.
• Oversee inventory management, ensuring accurate forecasting, efficient stock control, and minimization of waste and obsolescence.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms, maintain quality standards, and ensure timely delivery.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supply chain performance, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Implement appropriate technologies and systems to support data-driven decision making and improve the overall efficiency of the supply chain.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage.
• Drive a culture of compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and ethical practices across the supply chain.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the supply chain team, fostering a positive work environment and promoting professional development.
• Collaborate with senior management to align supply chain strategies with broader business objectives and strategic initiatives.

*Qualifications: *

• Proven experience in a Supply Chain Manager role within a dynamic, fast-paced organization.
• Degree in Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. Professional certifications such as APICS, SCPro, or Six Sigma are highly desirable.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire a team.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using supply chain management software and tools.
• Knowledge of current industry trends and best practices in supply chain management.
• Ability to travel as required. If you are a proactive, results-driven professional with a passion for supply chain optimization we would love to hear from you. We offer competitive remuneration, opportunities for career advancement, and a supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusivity. Apply today to join our team and make a significant impact on the future of our organization.

Routine Tasks

As a vital member of our team in the East of England, the Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for executing various tasks that ensure seamless and efficient operations within the supply chain. These responsibilities encompass both strategic and tactical aspects, contributing significantly to the overall success of the organisation.

• *Demand Forecasting and Planning

• : Collaborate with internal teams and stakeholders to forecast demand accurately and create short-term and long-term plans for inventory management.

• *Inventory Management

• : Ensure optimal levels of stock are maintained, monitoring and adjusting as necessary based on demand forecasts and supplier lead times.

• *Supplier Relationship Management

• : Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure consistent quality, timely delivery, and competitive pricing. Negotiate contracts and agreements that align with the organisation's strategic goals.

• *Order Management

• : Work closely with internal teams to process orders accurately and efficiently, ensuring timely delivery to customers and minimising delays or disruptions.

• *Performance Monitoring

• : Regularly review key performance indicators (KPIs) related to supply chain operations, such as order cycle time, fill rates, and supplier lead times. Use this data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions where necessary.

• *Supplier Performance Evaluation

• : Conduct regular evaluations of suppliers' performance, assessing their ability to meet the organisation's needs in terms of quality, delivery, and cost. Identify potential risks and opportunities for collaboration or supplier diversification.

• *Strategic Planning

• : Collaborate with senior management to develop and implement long-term supply chain strategies that align with the overall business objectives. This may include exploring new technologies, processes, or markets to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

• *Risk Management

• : Identify potential risks within the supply chain (e.g., supplier bankruptcy, logistics disruptions) and develop contingency plans to mitigate their impact on the organisation's operations.

• *Continuous Improvement

• : Actively seek opportunities for process improvements and innovation within the supply chain, collaborating with internal teams and external experts as needed.

• *Budgeting and Cost Analysis

• : Prepare and manage the supply chain budget, monitoring costs and identifying areas where savings can be made without compromising quality or service levels.

• *Performance Review

• : Conduct regular performance reviews with team members, setting objectives and providing feedback to support their professional development. Identify training needs and provide guidance or resources as necessary.

• *Stakeholder Communication

• : Present supply chain performance data and insights to senior management, demonstrating the impact of the supply chain on overall business performance and highlighting areas for improvement.

• *Supplier Performance Reporting

• : Provide regular updates to internal teams and stakeholders regarding supplier performance, addressing any issues or concerns that may arise and taking corrective actions as necessary.

Role Responsibilities

In this pivotal role within our organization, the Supply Chain Manager will play a crucial part in driving operational efficiency and ensuring seamless supply chain management across various facilities in the East of England region. This position requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership abilities, exceptional organizational skills, and a keen eye for detail.

Strategy Development and Implementation - Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement effective supply chain strategies that align with our business objectives.

• Stay abreast of industry trends and market dynamics to identify opportunities for improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing service levels.

Supplier Relationship Management - Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality goods at competitive prices.

• Negotiate contracts that optimize cost, quality, and delivery times while adhering to our ethical and sustainability standards.

Inventory Management - Develop and implement effective inventory management strategies to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.

• Collaborate with the demand planning team to forecast demand accurately and manage inventory levels accordingly.

Logistics and Transportation - Oversee the logistics and transportation function, ensuring goods are moved efficiently and cost-effectively between our facilities and customers.

• Manage relationships with carriers and freight forwarders to optimize shipping routes, modes of transport, and delivery times.

Risk Management - Identify potential risks within the supply chain and develop contingency plans to mitigate these risks.

• Coordinate responses to disruptions in the supply chain, such as supplier issues, transportation delays, or natural disasters.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting - Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for the supply chain function and monitor performance against these KPIs.

• Prepare regular reports on supply chain performance for senior management, highlighting areas of success and opportunities for improvement.

Team Leadership and Development - Manage a team of supply chain professionals, providing guidance, mentoring, and training to help them develop their skills and careers.

• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

About Us

*About Us *

Welcome to our dynamic and innovative organisation a leading player in the East of England's business landscape. We are committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers by leveraging our extensive expertise in supply chain management. Our success is built on a foundation of collaboration, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In our organisation we foster an environment that encourages creativity, growth, and learning. We believe that every team member plays a crucial role in achieving our vision. As such we invest significantly in our people, providing them with the resources, training, and opportunities necessary to excel in their roles. Our Supply Chain team is at the heart of our operations, ensuring seamless flow of goods from suppliers to customers. We are now seeking a passionate and experienced Supply Chain Manager to join our ranks and help drive our supply chain strategy forward. As a Supply Chain Manager within our organisation, you will play a pivotal role in optimising our supply chain processes, managing relationships with key suppliers, and ensuring timely delivery of products to our customers. You will have the opportunity to work closely with various departments, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and make significant contributions to the overall success of our business. We offer a competitive salary package, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation. If you are a results-driven professional with a passion for supply chain management we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity with us. Together we can continue to set new standards in customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Join us today and take the first step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career in the East of England's thriving business community. We look forward to hearing from you!