Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and tackle production challenges in a dynamic manufacturing setting.
- Company: Join a reputable client in the Defence sector, known for innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working pattern with a competitive hourly rate and a 4-day work week.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who thrive under pressure and want to make impactful improvements.
- Qualifications: CIPS or Lean/Six Sigma background with strong supply chain experience required.
- Other info: This is a 12-month contract role based in Norwich.
Are you a technically-minded supply chain expert ready to take ownership of a key supplier relationship in a fast-moving manufacturing environment? I am working with a reputable client in the Defence sector who are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Specialist to join their team immediately to manage production and performance with a key supplier.
Role: 12-month contract
Location: Based in Norwich
Working Pattern: Hybrid (4-day week)
Pay: Competitive hourly rate (Inside IR35)
This supply chain role will require a strong focus on ensuring on-time delivery, resolving manufacturing and supply issues, and maintaining a firm onsite presence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Act as the main liaison between our business and the supplier, providing consistent site presence
- Tackle production delays, material flow issues, and escalate risks as needed
- Coordinate across Supply Chain, Projects, Engineering & Quality
- Bring structure, consistency, and accountability to supplier performance
- Confidently challenge the norm and lead process improvements.
If you thrive under pressure, understand manufacturing environments and can push for results with a professional yet assertive approach, this is the role for you!
Required Skills/Experience:
- CIPS or Lean/Six Sigma background
- Strong supply chain/manufacturing experience
- Experience managing challenging supplier relationships
- Technical knowledge of build/assembly processes.
Why This Role?
- Flexible working pattern
- Competitive hourly rate (Inside IR35)
- Great opportunity to apply technical and commercial skills to drive real improvements
This is a fantastic Defence sector opportunity for a Supply Chain Specialist who gets stuck in, sorts problems fast, and is willing to challenge the norm. If this opportunity is for you - Apply Now!
Supply Chain Specialist employer: Barclay Meade
Contact Detail:
Barclay Meade Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Specialist
✨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 as a candidate who is not only technically minded but also industry-savvy.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the supply chain and manufacturing sectors, especially those with experience in Defence. Engaging with industry groups or attending relevant events can provide valuable insights and connections that may lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships and resolved production issues in the past. Being able to articulate your problem-solving skills and assertiveness will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s current suppliers and any recent news related to their supply chain operations. Showing that you are informed about their business and challenges can give you an edge during discussions and interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in supply chain management, particularly any roles where you've managed supplier relationships or tackled production issues. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the Defence sector. Mention how your background in CIPS or Lean/Six Sigma aligns with the job requirements and provide examples of how you've successfully resolved supply chain challenges.
Highlight Technical Knowledge: Since the role requires technical knowledge of build and assembly processes, ensure you mention any relevant experience or training in this area. This will show that you understand the manufacturing environment and can contribute effectively.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Use your application to illustrate your ability to tackle production delays and material flow issues. Provide specific instances where you've successfully implemented process improvements or resolved supplier-related challenges.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barclay Meade
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Supply Chain Specialist, especially in a manufacturing environment. Familiarise yourself with key terms like on-time delivery, production delays, and supplier performance metrics.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your technical knowledge of build and assembly processes. Highlight any relevant experience you have with Lean/Six Sigma methodologies or CIPS qualifications, as these will be crucial in demonstrating your expertise.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle specific challenges, such as resolving supply issues or managing difficult supplier relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Assertiveness
Since the role requires someone who can confidently challenge the norm, prepare examples of when you've successfully led process improvements or tackled production issues. Show that you can push for results while maintaining professionalism.
