Supply Chain Manager

About the role

This permanent, full‑time position is based in Chelmsford, South East England, supporting a leading manufacturing organisation across multiple UK sites. The Supply Chain Manager will drive procurement excellence, ensuring cost‑effective purchasing, supplier performance, and uninterrupted supply continuity.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with business goals to deliver value, quality and cost efficiencies.
• Lead and develop procurement teams across several UK locations.
• Manage the full supplier lifecycle – sourcing, evaluation, selection, performance management and relationship development.
• Negotiate contracts and commercial agreements while maintaining legal and ethical compliance.
• Analyse market trends and supplier performance to identify cost‑saving opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, finance and other functions to support demand planning.
• Maintain procurement policies, processes and controls for efficiency and transparency.
• Conduct supplier audits to ensure quality, sustainability and regulatory standards.
• Produce regular reports on procurement performance, savings initiatives and key risks for senior leadership.
• Identify and manage supply continuity risks, developing mitigation strategies such as dual sourcing and inventory planning.

Required profile

• Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in procurement or supply chain management, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• CIPS qualification preferred.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary (£50,000‑£55,000 per year) and benefits package.
• Opportunities to work across multiple sites with occasional travel.
• Professional development and career progression within a global organisation.