Procurement and Shipping Manager in Northampton

Location: Northampton, UK (on site)

The Environment: Blackstar is a unique environment; on one hand it is very professional, energetic and dynamic and yet still remains informal and full of humour. We promote equality, diversity and inclusion. Our team are experts in their field, passionate about music and driven to be the most professional company in the industry as a whole. If you approach your work with pride, want to be the best and help to grow our global brand to its full potential, we would love to hear from you.

The company: Launched in 2007, Blackstar is globally recognised and respected as an innovator and leader in guitar amplification design. We are a company of musicians who are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone. Blackstar is based in Northampton, with over 80 years’ combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. Our team pioneers change in the industry and has a strong commitment to driving transformational innovation within all of our products. Blackstar products are the best in the world for design, technology and performance – we create the ultimate tools for self-expression.

The role: We want to appoint an experienced, organised, energetic and commercially-minded Supply Chain Manager to work alongside the Finance Director to manage and develop Blackstar’s Supply Chain operation. Blackstar has two high quality finished good suppliers based in the Far-East. Products are then consolidated and shipped to a network of around 50 distributors worldwide. In the UK, Blackstar distributes itself to a network around 150 specialist retailers via a UK 3PL logistics provider and also Direct to Consumer. Additional stock is held at an EU 3PL to supply Amazon EU. The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of all supply chain operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience managing a global network, including deep knowledge of sourcing and manufacturing in Far East, as well as a strong track record of managing outsourced 3PL relationships. This role requires a hands-on, detail-oriented leader who can balance the need for operational efficiency with the agility required in a fast-paced, SME environment.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Supplier Management (Far East):

• Oversee all procurement activities, from sourcing and vendor selection to contract negotiation and ongoing relationship management with manufacturing partners in Far East.
• Manage supplier performance against key metrics (KPIs) such as quality, delivery, cost, and lead times.
• Conduct regular supplier audits and risk assessments to ensure compliance with company standards and mitigate supply chain disruptions.
• Deepen existing relationships while actively seeking new supplier opportunities in line with evolving business needs and risk mitigation strategies.
• In conjunction with The Supply Chain Administrator (China) drive cost down opportunities across the product line.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all third-party logistics providers, ensuring seamless integration and alignment with business objectives.
• Lead commercial negotiations and contract management with 3PLs to secure competitive pricing and favourable service level agreements (SLAs).
• Monitor 3PL performance on KPIs such as on-time delivery, fulfilment accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.
• Optimise logistics and transportation strategies, managing the movement of goods from Far East to global markets.

• Develop and implement last mile solutions for in-house distribution and direct to consumer requirements.

• Develop and implement effective inventory control strategies to balance stock levels, minimise holding costs, and prevent stockouts.
• Analyse historical data and market trends to create accurate demand forecasts that inform production planning.
• Manage inventory across various locations, working closely with 3PL partners to ensure efficient warehousing and distribution.

• Work with the Finance Director to develop and implement a cohesive global supply chain strategy that aligns with the Company’s financial and growth goals.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks across the supply chain, including geopolitical, logistical, and quality-related issues.
• Leverage technology and data analytics to drive continuous improvement, enhance visibility and optimise processes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams (e.g., Sales, Finance, Product Development and Marketing) to ensure alignment and execute strategic plans.
• Manage a small team of supply chain and logistics staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Promote innovation, stay informed about new technologies and trends to find ways to enhance supply chain efficiency and implement new processes.

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following:

• Be passionate about music and want to work in the Musical Instrument industry.
• Experience in managing B2B export distribution/retail channels.
• A self-starting and entrepreneurial spirit with a strong work ethic.
• A strong desire to develop their commercial skills to the highest level.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong numeracy skills including calculating profit margins.
• Professional, organised, methodical and able to work under pressure.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

The below qualifications/skills/experience would be beneficial, however not essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CIPS, CSCP, CILT, CPIM) is a plus.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with significant exposure to a global network.
• Demonstrable experience managing supplier relationships and sourcing within Far East.
• Proven expertise in managing third-party logistics (3PL) providers and negotiating contracts.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, forecast trends, and solve problems creatively.
• Excellent commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and manage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency with supply chain management (SCM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
• A strategic mindset with a hands-on, “can-do” attitude suitable for a fast-paced SME environment.

Package and info:

• Competitive salary
• Commission and Bonus scheme
• Workplace pension
• 25 days annual leave (+1 day annually after 2nd work anniversary, up to maximum 30 days)
• Private Health Care (after probation period)
• Office hours are 06:00 to 15:00 (3:00pm) Monday to Friday, with an occasional requirement to travel internationally, stay away and a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve results.

Please apply with an up-to-date CV. We are looking to hold interviews, for which an initial video / telephone call will be the first step.