Supply Chain Manager


Chelmsford
Permanent
USD130000 - USD160000
Supply Chain Leadership
PR/585766_1778001742
Supply Chain Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Supply Chain Manager to lead and modernize the supply chain organization for a fast‑growing manufacturer of custom, engineered equipment built entirely in‑house. This is a highly visible, hands‑on leadership role reporting directly to the CEO, created to enable change, remove roadblocks, and build scalable systems that will support significant growth over the next several years.

This role is ideal for a supply chain leader who enjoys being close to the operation, building structure where it doesn't exist, and transforming a reactive environment into a proactive, data‑driven function.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

  • Lead and support a supply chain team including purchasing, inventory, logistics, and shipping/receiving
  • Step into day‑to‑day execution as needed to stabilize operations and prioritize work
  • Partner closely with production planning, manufacturing, engineering, and operations leadership

Supplier Strategy & Procurement

  • Own supplier relationships, negotiations, pricing, lead times, and performance management
  • Reduce risk and cost through supplier rationalization and improved sourcing strategies
  • Relieve overextended buyers by taking an active role in vendor engagement

Systems, Process & Modernization

  • Replace manual, spreadsheet‑driven workflows with scalable systems and tools
  • Leverage ERP, planning tools, and AI‑enabled solutions to improve visibility and efficiency
  • Design and implement clear processes for supply chain requests, material flow, and planning
  • Help separate manufacturing and service supply chains to reduce complexity and bottlenecks

Strategic Impact

  • Shift the organization from reactive "firefighting" to proactive planning and execution
  • Build infrastructure that supports long‑term growth, with the company targeting significant expansion over the next five years
  • Communicate clearly and decisively-setting expectations, action items, and priorities across teams

Qualifications & Experience

Required

  • 8+ years of progressive supply chain experience in manufacturing
  • Proven experience in high‑mix, high‑volume, custom production environments
  • Hands‑on leadership style with the ability to operate both strategically and tactically
  • Experience working closely with engineering and production teams
  • Strong communication skills and comfort leading through change

Strongly Preferred

  • Experience modernizing supply chain functions or building systems from the ground up
  • Exposure to AI, automation, or advanced planning tools
  • Background in in‑house manufacturing environments
  • Experience supporting rapid growth or scale‑up operations

Work Environment

  • Primarily on‑site to enable collaboration with manufacturing and planning teams
  • Flexible hours
  • Hybrid option (1-2 days per week) may be available after successful onboarding

FAQs

Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.

Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.

We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business. 

That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created. 

Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.

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