At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the full supply chain lifecycle, from sourcing to logistics and inventory control.
- Company: Leading-edge manufacturing business in Abingdon with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, private healthcare, and share options.
- Why this job: Influence key operations in a technical environment and drive continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain or procurement within manufacturing, strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and development in a dynamic team.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
A leading-edge manufacturing business is seeking a proactive and experienced Supply Chain Manager to join its Operations & Quality team in Abingdon. This is a key role responsible for managing the full supply chain lifecycle, including sourcing, procurement, logistics and inventory control for specialist materials and internationally shipped components. Ideal for candidates with a background in manufacturing supply chains, particularly involving metals, powders or similarly controlled materials, this position offers the opportunity to influence key operational functions in a highly technical environment.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Production and managing a Goods-In & Inventory Coordinator, the successful candidate will take ownership of supplier relationships, purchasing processes, goods receipt, stock control and international logistics. The role requires close collaboration with production, engineering and quality teams to ensure materials and components are delivered on time, to spec and within budget.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Identify and onboard suppliers for key production inputs
- Lead supplier negotiations and maintain commercial terms
- Develop sourcing strategies and manage supplier performance
- Purchasing & Planning
- Manage purchase orders and maintain accurate ERP/MRP data
- Forecast demand in collaboration with Production and Sales
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies and audit readiness
- Logistics & Inventory Control
- Oversee international shipments and customs processes
- Manage goods-in activities and ensure material traceability
- Maintain accurate inventory records and support non-conformance handling
- Cost & Risk Management
- Monitor material and freight costs
- Maintain supplier risk registers
- Produce supply chain reports and dashboards
- Team Leadership & Continuous Improvement
- Line manage the Goods-In & Inventory function
- Develop SOPs for purchasing and inventory workflows
- Drive process improvements across the supply chain
Requirements
Essential
- Supply chain or procurement experience within manufacturing
- Strong supplier negotiation and relationship skills
- Knowledge of incoterms, customs and international shipping
- ERP/MRP experience and strong data discipline
- Understanding of material traceability and quality processes
- Experience managing goods-in or stock control functions
- Proficiency in Excel; Power BI beneficial
Desirable
- Background in metals or powder-based manufacturing
- CIPS qualification or currently studying
Key Competencies
- Accountability and initiative
- Analytical thinking
- Collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Commitment to safety and compliance
Salary and Benefits
£50,000 to £60,000 per annum
25 days' holiday plus bank holidays
9% employer pension contribution
Private healthcare (including dental, optical and health screening)
Share option scheme
Supply Chain Manager in Oxford employer: Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the supply chain and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. Be ready to discuss how your experience with supplier management and logistics can add value to their operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've used data to improve supply chain efficiency. This will demonstrate your ability to make informed decisions in a technical environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We want to see your application and help you land that Supply Chain Manager role. It's a great way to ensure your CV gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supply Chain Manager role. Highlight your experience in sourcing, procurement, and logistics, especially if you've worked with metals or powders. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about supply chain management and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any relevant achievements that showcase your skills.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your ERP/MRP experience and proficiency in Excel. If you have knowledge of incoterms and customs processes, make that clear! We love candidates who can demonstrate their analytical thinking and attention to detail.
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 StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management, especially in manufacturing. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like sourcing, procurement, and logistics, particularly as they relate to metals and powders. This will help you speak confidently about your experience and how it aligns with the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed supplier relationships or improved inventory control. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Since the role requires strong data discipline, be ready to discuss your experience with ERP/MRP systems and how you've used data to drive decisions. If you have experience with Excel or Power BI, highlight specific projects where these tools helped you optimise supply chain processes.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working closely with various teams, so be prepared to talk about how you've collaborated with production, engineering, and quality teams in the past. Share examples that showcase your ability to communicate effectively and build strong relationships across departments.