Supply Chain Lead in Cheltenham

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE TYPE: UK-Security Check (SC)

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

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.

Opportunity Overview: This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. As a Supply Chain Lead, you will play a pivotal role in delivering a sustainable, efficient, and strategically aligned supply chain to support our programmes. You’ll work as a key member of our Supply Chain team, guiding decision‑making, shaping supplier strategies, and strengthening our ecosystem of partners to safeguard commercial interests and enable successful delivery. You’ll influence how we collaborate with suppliers, enhance operational performance, streamline sourcing processes, and drive continuous improvement across the business. This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on some of the UK’s most pioneering and mission‑led programmes.

Role Responsibilities:

• Provide senior supply chain support to programmes, including identifying suitable suppliers and shaping negotiation and tendering strategies.
• Lead competitive sourcing activity to ensure on‑time delivery, best value, and alignment with programme requirements.
• Negotiate and implement agreements, ensuring customer flowdowns and commercial considerations are fully captured.
• Proactively manage supplier relationships, including price, availability, performance, and obsolescence risks.
• Oversee supplier performance governance, ensuring alignment with supplier management processes and reporting on key metrics such as OTIF, quality, and risk.
• Collaborate closely with Programmes, providing updates, reporting, and timely communication across stakeholders.
• Provide leadership and guidance to Supply Chain team members and support wider continuous improvement initiatives.

Candidate Requirements:

Essential:

• Experience within a supply chain function, with strong understanding of how supply chain operations drive organisational efficiency.
• Demonstrable success negotiating and managing subcontracts, with sound knowledge of contract and subcontract law.
• Ability to manage the supply chain elements of complex programmes.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Advanced Excel capability and confident use of MS Office and presentation tools.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively at all levels.
• Qualified in a relevant subject (preferably degree level).

Preferred:

• CIPS qualification.
• Experience with US export/import trade controls.
• Knowledge of European languages.

If you meet most — but not all — of the criteria, we still encourage you to apply. We value potential just as much as experience.

Security Clearance: Due to the nature of our work, you must be able to gain and maintain the appropriate UK Government security clearance required for this role.

Benefits:

• Flexible working options, including compressed fortnight.
• Private healthcare.
• Cash health plan to support everyday medical costs.
• Holiday buy and sell scheme.
• Career development programmes and internal mobility opportunities.
• Performance‑based bonuses.

Why Join Northrop Grumman UK?

A Mission to Believe In: Every day, we contribute to building a more secure and connected world. Your work has purpose and impact — on our customers, our communities, and national security.

A Place to Belong and Thrive: We foster an inclusive environment where every voice matters. You’ll join a supportive team that values curiosity, collaboration, and diverse perspectives.

Your Career, Your Way: Shape your career journey through mentorship, development opportunities, and a wide range of roles across our growing UK footprint.

Ready to Apply? Yes – Submit your application online. Possibly – Contact us for more information: Not right now – 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.