At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supplier performance and drive improvements in quality and delivery.
- Company: Join a leading defence engineering firm with over 70 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent transport links, onsite gym, and coffee shop.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on defence capabilities while working with key partners.
- Qualifications: Experience in supplier development and a background in aerospace or defence.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
This role sits at the heart of supply chain performance across complex defence programmes. You will take ownership of supplier capability, delivery and risk, working closely with key partners to drive measurable improvements across quality, output and resilience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead supplier performance across delivery, quality and capacity
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks impacting programme delivery
- Drive continuous improvement using Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
- Work closely with suppliers to improve capability and operational performance
- Manage a portfolio of strategic suppliers, tracking KPIs and driving outcomes
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience in supplier development / supplier performance / SRM
- Background in aerospace, defence or complex manufacturing environments
- Strong understanding of Lean, DMAIC or continuous improvement tools
- Experience managing supplier risk and performance data
- Confident stakeholder engagement across internal teams and suppliers
What happens now?
If your application meets the initial selection criteria, a member of our talent acquisition team will contact you via email to arrange a structured screening call. This conversation will explore your experience, technical background, and suitability for the role in more detail.
Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our client's Security Team.
More about the role:
For more than 70 years, our client has been in a strong partnership with the UK military. They have accomplished numerous milestones in defence engineering and have provided essential defence capabilities to meet the requirements of the armed forces across land, sea, and air. This role is based at our client's headquarters in Stevenage, a key location for missile operations. The site offers excellent transportation links, an onsite gym, and a coffee shop.
Supplier Development Manager Defence - Manufacturing employer: Guidant Global
As a Supplier Development Manager in Defence Manufacturing, you will join a company with over 70 years of partnership with the UK military, renowned for its commitment to excellence in defence engineering. Located in Stevenage, the headquarters boasts excellent transport links and amenities such as an onsite gym and coffee shop, fostering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and continuous improvement. With a focus on professional growth and development, this role offers the opportunity to lead impactful projects while collaborating with key stakeholders in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supplier Development Manager Defence - Manufacturing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence and manufacturing sectors, especially those who work with suppliers. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your screening call by brushing up on your knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past roles to drive improvements. We want to see your passion for continuous improvement!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with supplier performance management. Think of specific examples where you identified risks and improved capabilities. We love hearing about real-life successes, so make sure to highlight them during your conversations.
✨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 our team and contributing to our mission in the defence sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Supplier Development Manager Defence - Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supplier Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in supplier performance and any relevant projects you've worked on in aerospace or defence. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:When writing your application, don’t just list your responsibilities. Instead, showcase your achievements! Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you’ve driven improvements in quality, delivery, or risk management. Numbers speak volumes!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and concise. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your points are easy to understand and get straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Guidant Global
✨Know Your Suppliers
Before the interview, research the key suppliers relevant to the defence sector. Understand their capabilities, challenges, and how they align with the company's goals. This will show your proactive approach and genuine interest in supplier development.
✨Showcase Your Lean Expertise
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've applied Lean or Six Sigma methodologies in past roles. Highlight measurable improvements you've driven in supplier performance, as this directly relates to the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Risk Management Questions
Expect questions about managing supplier risks. Think of scenarios where you identified potential risks and how you mitigated them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Engage Stakeholders Confidently
Since stakeholder engagement is crucial, practice articulating how you've successfully collaborated with internal teams and suppliers. Be ready to discuss your communication style and how you build relationships to drive outcomes.
