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- Tasks: Manage and optimise global supply chain operations for a leading guitar amplification brand.
- Company: Join Blackstar, a dynamic and innovative leader in the music industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, commission, 25+ days holiday, and private healthcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team driving transformational innovation in music technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in supply chain management with global experience and strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Work in a fun, informal environment with opportunities for international travel.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
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.
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.
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 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.
- 3PL and Logistics Management: 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.
- UK Distribution and Direct to Consumer: Develop and implement last mile solutions for in-house distribution and direct to consumer requirements.
Requirements:
- 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.
Supply Chain Manager employer: Blackstar Amplification Ltd
Contact Detail:
Blackstar Amplification Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Blackstar's products, values, and culture. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which can seriously boost your chances of landing that Supply Chain Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your experience aligns with the job description. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your supplier management and logistics expertise, as well as how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Blackstar family!
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supply Chain Manager role. Highlight your experience with global networks, supplier management, and 3PL relationships. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Show Your Passion: Don’t just list your qualifications; let your passion for supply chain management shine through! Share examples of how you’ve driven efficiency or innovation in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about what they do.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Blackstar!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackstar Amplification Ltd
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management, especially in relation to global networks and 3PL logistics. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in managing supplier relationships and optimising logistics.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to talk about how you've used data to drive decisions in your previous roles. Bring examples of how you've forecasted trends or solved complex problems creatively. This will show that you have the analytical mindset needed for the role at Blackstar.
✨Demonstrate Your Negotiation Prowess
Since the role involves negotiating contracts with suppliers and 3PLs, think of instances where you've successfully negotiated terms. Highlight your commercial acumen and how it has led to cost savings or improved service levels in your previous positions.
✨Embrace the Company Culture
Blackstar values a dynamic and informal environment, so be yourself during the interview! Share your passion for music and how it aligns with their mission. Show that you can balance professionalism with a sense of humour, which is key to fitting into their team.
