Location: Preferably Bristol, with Appledore, Belfast or Methil also considered. Travel to other Navantia sites and supplier locations will be required.
What you'll do
- Lead a small team delivering robust supply chain input across bids and proposals.
- Develop contracting and sourcing strategies that balance cost, quality, delivery, technology and risk.
- Partner with Engineering, Operations, Commercial and Legal teams on procurement packages, specifications, delivery models and cost models.
- Lead supplier engagement and negotiations, securing contract-quality offers and clear recommendations for approval.
- Build insight into global and UK supply chain capability, capacity and emerging opportunities.
- Develop high-performing supplier relationships and lead reviews with key strategic suppliers.
- Drive category management, cost reduction, value engineering, continuous improvement and digitalisation.
- Identify strategic supply chain risks and put effective management plans in place., You'll have the opportunity to influence supply chain strategy across significant UK defence programmes, lead meaningful supplier partnerships and help create long-term competitive advantage for Navantia UK.
We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds, identities and experiences.
Requirements
- Leadership experience in a complex maritime, construction, defence, aerospace or project-based environment.
- Strong procurement, commercial, contracting, negotiation and cost-analysis capability.
- Experience of complex contract models and business cases, ideally supporting NATO or Ministry of Defence contracts.
- A sound understanding of contract law, defence procurement, financial modelling and supplier risk.
- The ability to build trusted relationships with senior suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Familiarity with ERP systems, bid tools and export or security requirements such as ITAR., A relevant degree or equivalent experience; professional qualifications such as CIPS, APICS, CSCP or PMP are beneficial.
Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK's defence, security and energy transition ambitions. We're doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff's proud heritage and facilities with Navantia's global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain's defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
Benefits
Competitive base pay
- Company pension
- 33 days holiday
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Head of Supply Chain - Bids & Proposals employer: NAVANTIA UK
Navantia UK is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth and development while working in a supportive environment that values health, safety, and environmental standards. Located in a thriving area, the company fosters a sense of community and teamwork, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
