Supply Chain Manager

A Supply Chain Manager is sought to join a global manufacturing organisation in Bedford, Bedfordshire, contributing to the strategic management of procurement operations, supplier relationships, and supply chain performance across international operations.

The Supply Chain Manager, Bedford, Bedfordshire, will be expected to develop and lead the purchasing function, ensuring the continuous supply of high-quality materials and services while driving cost optimisation and operational efficiency. This may include managing procurement teams, developing supplier strategies, implementing purchasing processes, and supporting supply chain development within a multi-country environment.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead and manage the purchasing team across the UK and Germany, covering all people management activities.
• Develop and implement a purchasing shared service centre in Romania to support global procurement operations.
• Define KPIs for the purchasing team and implement performance monitoring processes.
• Develop and maintain relationships with critical suppliers to ensure supply continuity and reduce risk.
• Conduct supplier audits in collaboration with quality teams to maintain a robust supply chain.
• Manage approved supplier lists and ensure suppliers deliver high-quality components on time and within target pricing.
• Maintain supplier scorecards and monitor supplier performance through regular reviews and site visits.
• Manage supplier pricing agreements, service level agreements, and contractual terms.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and payment terms to meet purchasing targets and improve cash flow.
• Review supplier quotations and costing to ensure competitive pricing and commercial value.
• Review Bills of Materials for new orders and work with engineering teams to resolve material or sourcing issues.
• Oversee procurement processes and ensure compliance with company standards.
• Support production teams with material-related queries and resolve supply chain issues.
• Manage supplier non-conformances in collaboration with the quality department.

Key skills & experience:

• CIPS Level 5/6 qualification or equivalent experience in procurement or supply chain management.
• Extensive experience in supply chain or purchasing within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing technical supply chains for components, assemblies, or manufacturing processes.
• Experience with MRP systems for scheduling and managing procurement activities.
• Strong negotiation, commercial awareness, and contract management experience.
• Experience managing and developing procurement teams.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as plastic injection moulding, stamping, sheet metal processing, or CNC machining.
• Strong analytical, organisational, and planning skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments and international teams.

How to apply:

Apply now for the Supply Chain Manager role in Bedford, Bedfordshire. Send your CV to (url removed) or call Adam on (phone number removed).