At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global supply chain operations and transform manufacturing processes for a dynamic sports brand.
- Company: Fast-growing global sports & leisure manufacturer with a rich 45-year heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £120,000 plus bonus, with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a rapidly scaling brand and influence global expansion strategies.
- Qualifications: Senior supply chain leadership experience and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 120000 £ per year.
Location: UK
Travel: Regular travel to Asia required
Function: Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Operations
The Company: We are partnering with a fast‑growing global sports & leisure manufacturer with a 45‑year heritage in engineered products and a rapidly expanding international footprint. The company designs, manufactures, and distributes a broad range of sports equipment, accessories, and newly introduced digital consumer products, supplying major markets across the UK, Europe (especially DACH), the US, and Asia.
The Role: A senior, strategically oriented leadership position reporting to the COO.
You will own:
- The performance of the Asia-based manufacturing operation including P&L partnership, cost control, CapEx planning, efficiency initiatives, and continuous improvement of the Tianjin factory.
- The commercial & strategic ownership of all third‑party suppliers including selection, contract negotiation, exclusivity agreements, and governance frameworks across the multi-category supply base.
You’ll also shape the supply-side of a major operating model transformation, ensuring the business has the processes, suppliers, production capability, and freight model required to scale globally. This is a role for someone who can think strategically, operate commercially, and influence cross‑continent teams - while still being hands‑on enough to solve complex manufacturing and sourcing challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
- Third‑Party Supplier Strategy & Commercial Leadership: Own supplier selection, evaluation and onboarding across all product categories. Lead pricing, contract, and exclusivity negotiations with key partners. Build a structured governance model across a ~15‑supplier network. Oversee supplier readiness for new categories (consumer electronics, licensed goods). Act as escalation point for all major supplier issues. Provide strategic direction to the Asia Supply Chain Operations Manager.
- Operating Model Transition (MTS/MTO & Freight Strategy): Lead the shift from air‑freighted MTO to hybrid MTS/MTO. Develop stockholding, factory scheduling and production planning frameworks. Drive conversion from air to sea freight for stocked items. Enable consolidated FOB China shipments for multi‑product containers. Input into EU/US logistics network design in partnership with the COO.
- New Product Launch Readiness: Partner with Product Development on tooling, sampling, and supplier qualification. Assess supply chain risks early in the roadmap. Oversee launch readiness for complex licensed and consumer electronics products. Maintain robust risk management across factory and supplier base.
- Asia Manufacturing Leadership (Factory P&L, CapEx & CI): Support factory leadership with budgeting, cost modelling, and P&L insight. Assist in building the CapEx roadmap (automation, machinery, capacity). Support efficiency improvements and operational excellence initiatives. Align factory capacity with commercial growth and product pipeline.
- Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Manage and develop the Asia Supply Chain Operations Manager. Partner closely with the Head of S&OP to integrate supply/demand planning. Work collaboratively with the Finance Director on modelling, CapEx, and working capital. Provide supply‑side recommendations for network, logistics, and investment decisions. Oversee monthly, quarterly and annual supply chain reporting.
Candidate Profile:
- Senior supply chain/manufacturing leadership experience within consumer products.
- Direct accountability for manufacturing P&L and/or factory operations.
- Strong supplier commercial negotiation expertise.
- Experience managing significant operating model transitions (MTO→MTS, freight shifts, FOB).
- Deep familiarity with China‑origin supply chains, logistics, and manufacturing.
- Experience with consumer electronics, multi-SKU launches, or licensed product categories.
Skills & Attributes:
- Financially literate, commercially sharp, strong with P&L and CapEx.
- Strategic thinker who can translate vision into operational reality.
- Strong negotiator and relationship builder - internally and externally.
- Skilled people leader with cross‑cultural management experience.
- Thrives in a fast-scaling, dynamic, entrepreneurial organisation.
- Comfortable with complexity, pace and frequent travel to Asia.
Why This Role?
- Shape the global supply chain architecture of a rapidly scaling brand.
- Own the transformation of a factory, a supplier ecosystem, and the global operating model.
- Play a central role in the company’s shift into consumer electronics and high-growth product categories.
- Influence board‑level decisions and global expansion strategy.
Package: £120,000 + Bonus
Supply Chain Director in Northampton employer: ECR Global
Join a dynamic and innovative global sports and leisure manufacturer that values strategic leadership and operational excellence. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages creativity and problem-solving, while offering competitive benefits and regular opportunities for international travel to Asia. This role not only allows you to shape the future of supply chain operations but also positions you at the forefront of a rapidly expanding brand in the consumer electronics space.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Director in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend supply chain events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain operations. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around P&L management and supplier negotiations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your strategic thinking! During interviews, share examples of how you've successfully led operational transitions or improved efficiency in past roles. This will demonstrate your fit for a senior position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Director in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supply Chain Director role. Highlight your relevant experience in supply chain management, especially any leadership roles you've had in consumer products. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in supply chain operations and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, emphasise your strategic thinking abilities. We’re looking for someone who can not only manage day-to-day operations but also contribute to long-term planning and transformation. Share instances where you’ve successfully led change or improved processes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ECR Global
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's supply chain operations. Understand their current challenges, especially in Asia, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also invested in their success.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Given the strategic nature of the role, prepare to discuss your past experiences in leading operational transformations. Have specific examples ready that highlight your ability to manage P&L, negotiate contracts, and implement efficiency initiatives. This will demonstrate your capability to think strategically and act commercially.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss your approach to supplier negotiations. Bring examples of successful negotiations you've led, particularly in complex environments. This will help illustrate your strong relationship-building skills and commercial acumen.
✨Emphasise Cross-Cultural Leadership Experience
Since the role involves managing teams across continents, highlight your experience in cross-cultural management. Share stories that showcase your ability to lead diverse teams and navigate different cultural dynamics, especially in Asia. This will reassure them that you can thrive in their fast-scaling, dynamic environment.
