At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead supply chain initiatives, manage supplier relationships, and optimise procurement strategies.
- Company: Join Northrop Grumman UK, a leader in innovative defence solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible working, private healthcare, career development, and performance bonuses.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values every voice and offers diverse career pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while shaping your career.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in supply chain, with strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 47400 - 58000 £ per year.
UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Salary - £47,400 - £58,000
What's your possible? At Northrop Grumman UK, you are part of a team driving innovation where it matters most - solving tomorrow's challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. It's what we call Defining Possible. This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it's the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community.
The Opportunity: This is more than just a job; it's a mission. As a Supply Chain Lead, you will be a key member of our Supply Chain team, ensuring customer requirements are met while protecting the commercial and financial interests of the business. You will help develop and deliver a sustainable supply chain that supports our Defence programmes, providing expert guidance on procurement, supplier management and operational effectiveness.
Your work will shape strategic supply chain initiatives, optimise spend, and enhance collaboration with suppliers. This includes demand forecasting, purchase order management, material sourcing, scheduling and inventory control. You will play a vital role in supporting UK-wide and internationally deployed systems that form the modern backbone of the Royal Navy.
Role Responsibilities:
- Provide senior supply chain support across programmes, ensuring alignment with business needs.
- Identify suitable suppliers for programme items and services.
- Lead negotiation and tendering strategies to secure best value and on-time delivery.
- Manage supplier performance, including pricing, availability and issue resolution.
- Build and maintain strong, mutually beneficial supplier relationships.
- Monitor supply chain risks, including obsolescence and supply issues, and elevate concerns when required.
- Ensure supplier performance metrics such as quality, on-time delivery and risk management are effectively tracked.
Candidate Requirements:
- Essential Degree qualification or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
- Experience with NEC3 or NEC4 contracts within construction.
- Construction procurement experience.
- Experience working within a supply chain function.
- Demonstrated success in subcontract negotiation and management.
- Experience reviewing and contributing to proposals.
- Strong relationship‑building skills.
- Understanding of supply chain operations and efficiency improvement.
- Knowledge of contract and subcontract law.
Preferred:
- Experience in defence, engineering or complex project environments.
We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every requirement. We value potential as well as experience.
Security Clearance: Due to the nature of this role, you must be a UK national. You must be able to gain and maintain SC level UK Government security clearance.
Benefits:
- Flexible and hybrid working options, including an optional compressed fortnight.
- Private healthcare.
- Cash health plan.
- Holiday buy and sell scheme.
- Career development programmes.
- Performance bonuses.
Why Join Us?
- A Mission to Believe In: Every day, we contribute to building a more secure and connected world, supporting Defence programmes and mission-critical systems.
- A Place to Belong and Thrive: Every voice matters. You will be part of an inclusive community that supports authenticity, respect and collaboration.
- Your Career, Your Way: Shape your future through diverse roles, development pathways and mentoring opportunities, supported by wellbeing and lifestyle benefits.
Ready to apply? Yes - Submit your application online. Possibly - Contact our team for more information: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com. No - Explore other opportunities with us. We're growing across the UK.
Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.
Supply Chain Lead in Cheltenham employer: Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)
At Northrop Grumman UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of inclusivity and innovation. With flexible working options, comprehensive benefits including private healthcare, and a strong commitment to employee development, we empower our team members to thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in London, where your contributions will directly impact our mission to build a more secure and connected world, while enjoying a supportive environment that values every voice.
Contact Details:
Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Lead in Cheltenham
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU) and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU) keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Lead in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU):This is your chance to really connect with the team at Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU). In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU).
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU) that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU). Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!