At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic supply chain projects and design future operations for a global manufacturing business.
- Company: Join a FTSE 250 company making an impact in automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, private health cover, and 26 days holiday.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for travel and career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of supply chains while working with senior leaders in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 5–8 years in supply chain strategy or operations consulting; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
NextStep connects top consulting talent with high-potential opportunities through smart, AI-powered matching. We partner with ambitious companies across sectors to place experienced professionals in roles where they can have a real impact.
Our client is a FTSE 250 manufacturing and distribution business headquartered in London, producing speciality industrial components for customers across automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors globally. With manufacturing sites across the UK, Germany, and Southeast Asia and revenues of £800m, the business is undertaking a strategic review of its supply chain network in response to geopolitical risk, nearshoring trends, and the demands of its net-zero roadmap. The Group Operations Director is building a small in-house Strategy team to lead this work.
As Supply Chain Strategy Manager, you will lead strategic projects that shape how the business designs, sources, and operates its supply chain over the next 5–10 years. You will blend analytical modelling with deep operational insight – identifying vulnerabilities, designing future-state scenarios, and building the business case for network investment. This is a highly visible role that will work directly with the COO, CPO, and regional supply chain leaders.
What You'll Do
- Lead supply chain network design projects, analysing the current footprint, modelling alternative configurations, and recommending changes that reduce cost, risk, and lead times.
- Develop the business's supply chain resilience framework, mapping single-source dependencies, geopolitical exposures, and critical inventory buffers across the supplier network.
- Support the group's nearshoring and reshoring assessment, building business cases for site investment or supplier qualification in new geographies.
- Collaborate with Procurement, Logistics, and Manufacturing leads to translate strategic recommendations into operational roadmaps.
- Track global supply chain trends, including regulatory developments, commodity markets, and sustainability requirements, and brief senior leaders on strategic implications.
What We're Looking For
- 5–8 years of experience in supply chain strategy, operations consulting, or a strategic planning role within a manufacturing, industrial, or distribution business.
- Strong analytical skills, experienced with supply chain network modelling, scenario analysis, and total cost-to-serve frameworks.
- Comfortable navigating complexity, able to synthesise inputs from multiple functions and geographies into a coherent strategic view.
- Excellent communication skills; able to present technical supply chain analysis to non-specialist senior leaders.
- APICS CSCP, CIPS, or equivalent supply chain qualification is an advantage.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary of £70,000 – £90,000, depending on experience.
- Annual performance bonus.
- Private health cover, pension, and 26 days holiday.
- Hybrid working from London with occasional travel to manufacturing sites and supplier locations.
How to Apply
To be considered for this role, please create your profile at getnextstep.com. Once your profile is complete, our matching system will evaluate your background against the role criteria and match you with the company if it's a strong fit. No cover letter required. This role is listed by NextStep on behalf of our client. All applications are handled with confidentiality.
Supply Chain Strategy Manager employer: NextStep
Our client is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within a FTSE 250 manufacturing and distribution business. Located in London, employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive health coverage, and generous holiday allowances, all while engaging in meaningful projects that directly influence the future of supply chain strategy. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, this role provides unique opportunities to work closely with senior leadership and make a tangible impact in a rapidly evolving industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Strategy Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to professionals in the supply chain field, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research the company’s supply chain strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who can make a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website! By creating your profile at getnextstep.com, you’ll get matched with roles that fit your skills perfectly. Plus, it streamlines the process and gives you a better chance of landing that dream job.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Strategy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Profile Thoughtfully:When creating your profile on our website, make sure to highlight your relevant experience in supply chain strategy and operations. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so be specific about your achievements and skills!
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical abilities, don’t shy away from showcasing your experience with supply chain network modelling and scenario analysis. Use examples that demonstrate how you've tackled complex problems in the past.
Keep It Professional but Personal:While we don’t require a cover letter, your profile should still reflect your personality. Let us know what drives you in the supply chain field and why you're excited about this opportunity. A bit of passion goes a long way!
Double-Check Before You Submit:Before hitting that submit button, take a moment to review your profile for any typos or missing information. We want to see your best self, so make sure everything is polished and ready to impress!
How to prepare for a job interview at NextStep
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's supply chain operations. Understand their current network, key suppliers, and any recent changes in the industry. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their strategic projects.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to analyse hypothetical supply chain scenarios. Brush up on your analytical modelling skills and be ready to discuss how you would approach network design or resilience frameworks. Use real examples from your past experience to illustrate your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be presenting complex analyses to senior leaders, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. Prepare a few key points that highlight your ability to communicate effectively across different functions, ensuring you can convey your insights clearly.
✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Research the latest trends in supply chain management, especially around geopolitical risks and sustainability. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and understanding of the broader context in which the company operates.
