Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a diverse supply chain and support training equipment across key operational areas.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest outsourcing companies serving government and defence sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, large company perks, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a progressive team making a real impact in the defence sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial contracts and procurement in complex environments is essential.
- Other info: Work 3 days on-site in Portsmouth/Gosport and 2 days from home.
The predicted salary is between 56000 - 84000 £ per year.
Permanent – SC Level position £70,000 + Large Company Benefits
Portsmouth, Gosport, Hants – 3 days, 2 days WFH
One of the UK’s largest and most progressive commercial outsourcing companies to the Government, Defence, Public and Commercial sectors is seeking a Supply Chain Manager with experience across Operational, Programme/Finance Workstreams and the management of all matters Equipment and Assets. The individual will either hold or be able to work towards SC Level and will be on site 3 days a week at defence establishments in Portsmouth and Gosport, 2 days WFH.
Main Tasks & Responsibilities:
- Effective management of a diverse and ever-growing Supply Chain in addition to a varied and extensive Training Equipment Estate of Government Furnished Assets.
- Assist the Senior Commercial Manager (Training Support) across five key areas:
- Management of Business As Usual supplier activity for a selection of strategically important Supply Chain Partners, some with a contract value of circa £20m per annum, including obligations management, change management and contract conformance.
- Management of Business As Usual Supplier activity for a selection of Training Equipment support and maintenance Suppliers, some with a contract value of circa £1m per annum, including obligations management, change management and contract conformance.
- Provision of Commercial input to operational workstreams (including IT and Equipment and Asset Management) when required and as directed by the Senior Commercial Manager including supply chain management of a multitude of smaller value Suppliers.
- Lead Business As Usual procurement activity to support the Equipment function including support to on-going change activity in the Royal Navy Submarine Training School (RNSTC) programme.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Experienced commercial individual who has a demonstrable track record of operating in complex contract environments with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Commercial and Contracts experience (including drafting of subcontracts) with a demonstrable track record of pre- and post-contract commercial activity in a highly governed environment.
- Skilled in employing a high degree of commercial acumen to inform and guide senior leadership.
- Experienced in leading and delivering procurement activity in an equipment or complex services environment.
- An ability to operate as a team player with a collaborative working style.
- A strong influencer with the skills and experience to provide credible, pragmatic and commercial solutions to business problems, seeking win-win solutions wherever possible.
- A resilient and positive approach to dealing with conflict without damaging relationships.
- A determined and analytical approach to problem solving and able to use analytical data for decision making.
- Ability to manage a high demand workload and prioritise effectively in time-bound situations.
- Ability to work flexibly over a wide geographical area (where required) and experience of working in a multi-site/mobile capacity combining working from home for potentially prolonged periods.
Supply Chain Manager – Defence Sector employer: PeopleWorks
Contact Detail:
PeopleWorks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager – Defence Sector
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Defence Sector and its specific supply chain challenges. Understanding the unique requirements and regulations in this field will help you stand out during discussions with our hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in the defence supply chain. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to gain insights and potentially get referrals that could boost your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex contracts and procurement activities. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and navigated contract changes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively by preparing examples of how you've partnered with cross-functional teams. Highlighting your teamwork skills will show us that you're a good fit for our collaborative environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager – Defence Sector
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in supply chain management, particularly in complex contract environments. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in operations, finance, and asset management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities and essential skills mentioned in the job description. Show how your background aligns with the needs of the role and express your enthusiasm for working in the defence sector.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements that showcase your ability to manage supplier relationships, lead procurement activities, and navigate complex commercial environments.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at PeopleWorks
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing complex contracts and how you've successfully navigated commercial challenges. Highlight specific examples where your commercial insight led to positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Since the role involves interacting with various stakeholders, come ready to share instances where you've built strong relationships with both internal teams and external suppliers. This will show your ability to collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations. Think of scenarios where you had to manage change control or resolve conflicts, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Understand the Defence Sector Landscape
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence sector, particularly regarding supply chain management. Showing that you are informed about the industry will demonstrate your commitment and readiness for the role.
