At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative supply chain projects and ensure seamless operations across global networks.
- Company: Join BAT, a forward-thinking company committed to creating a smokeless world.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible holidays, and diverse health plans.
- Other info: Opportunities for personal growth and leadership development await you!
- Why this job: Shape the future of supply chains while advancing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain management and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow by Building a Smokeless World. To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey!
Location: Southampton, United Kingdom
Role Summary
The Supply Chain Initiative Manager is responsible for assessing, designing, and governing supply chain requirements from SG3 (BFI) to SG7 (LPA). This role ensures stage gate Supply Chain results are met, supports decision-making and risk management, and serves as the main contact for upstream supply chain, Plan and SND protocol/checklist related to innovation, working with cross-functional teams to establish fit-for-purpose supply chain setups. Own the assessment of supply chain and manufacturing complexity, capacity, and feasibility for projects across early PLM stages (POP, POC, POA, DP, SP). Act as the single point of accountability for all Supply Chain checklist items within the GSCA protocol, ensuring early identification and mitigation of supply risks, and alignment to cost, service, and launch readiness objectives.
Key Accountabilities
- FG, WMS & Component Contingency Source Plan: Own the development, validation, and approval of contingency sourcing strategies for finished goods (FG), WMS, and critical components to ensure uninterrupted supply.
- Supply Chain Network Assessment (SNA): Lead system-driven, end-to-end global supply network assessments to identify structural gaps, capacity constraints, and configuration risks.
- Inventory Stock Policy definition and alignment: Define and align global inventory strategies in line with demand variability, pipeline requirements, and supply risk exposure.
- Logistics – Mode of Transport: Establish and align optimized transportation strategies for both launch and steady-state supply, proactively managing logistics risk and cost.
- Global Project Demand vs Capacity: Assess global demand scenarios against available manufacturing and supply chain capacity, including ramp-up and scalability considerations.
- Leaf, WMS & Component Supply Plan: Develop, maintain, and govern detailed supply plans for leaf materials, WMS, and components, ensuring end-to-end readiness across all critical paths.
- FG, WMS & Component Contingency Validation & Readiness Plan: Validate contingency strategies through structured readiness and activation reviews to ensure rapid response capability in the event of primary supply disruption.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
- Timely, In-Full (OTIF) delivery of upstream supply chain assessments and results.
- % of projects passing stage gate reviews with complete supply chain documentation.
- Compliance with Supply chain protocol and governance standards for Breakthrough projects.
- Partner happiness with supply chain assessment processes & efficiency of risk mitigation.
Experience, Skills, Knowledge
Essential Experience Required:
- Experience in operations / supply chain management within FMCG or technology-driven sectors.
- Proven track record in upstream supply chain assessment and innovation project management.
- Experience in manufacturing, sourcing, logistics, or supply network build.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Effective teamwork and communication across matrix organizations.
- Solid knowledge of the PLM process and deep understanding of the new categories business.
Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required:
- Critical thinking and ability to influence supply chain innovation.
- Expertise in supply chain mapping, risk management, and protocol compliance.
- Financial acuity in budgeting, forecasting, and capex/opex management.
Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in supply chain, Operations, Engineering, or related field.
- Project management certification (e.g., PMP, Prince2, Agile) is highly desirable.
Beneficial:
- Experience in upstream innovation management.
What we offer you?
We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility). Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives.
Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation!
Supply Chain Initiative Manager in Southampton employer: BAT
BAT is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture in Southampton that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide access to online learning platforms and personalised development programmes, ensuring that your career progression is not just a goal but a reality. Our competitive salary package, market-leading bonuses, and diverse benefits reflect our dedication to creating a supportive environment where every colleague can thrive and contribute to building a smokeless world.
