At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to ensure a high-performing supply chain for innovative programmes.
- Company: Join Northrop Grumman UK, a leader in technology solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible working, private healthcare, career development, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while shaping the future of technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in supplier management and strong problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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 underpins your development, your opportunities, and the impact we make in our communities.
About the Opportunity: This is more than a job; it’s a mission. As a Supply Chain Manager, you will play a vital role in ensuring the delivery of a sustainable, high‑performing supply chain that supports the successful execution of our programmes. You’ll lead a dedicated Supplier Sourcing team, act as an escalation point for complex challenges, and ensure all supply chain activity aligns with our processes and programme priorities. Working within our programme delivery environment, you will help build and maintain strong supplier relationships, safeguard commercial interests, and contribute to continuous improvement across our operations. This is a role for someone who thrives on complexity, collaboration, and creating solutions that make a meaningful impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain a supplier network to support successful programme delivery.
- Identify, assess, and onboard suitable suppliers while maintaining an accurate Approved Suppliers List.
- Capture programme requirements, including commercial and flow‑down terms, in collaboration with internal stakeholders.
- Lead tendering activities to ensure on‑time, quality delivery into the business.
- Evaluate supplier proposals, negotiate subcontracts, and establish pricing agreements to deliver best value.
- Provide leadership, support, and mentoring to the Supply Chain team to ensure efficient execution of procurement and supplier management activities.
- Monitor supplier performance, manage risks and opportunities, and escalate issues that may affect contractual delivery.
- Support continuous improvement of supply chain processes and governance, collaborating with other business functions to enhance efficiency.
Candidate Requirements:
Essential:
- Experience in supplier relationship management and subcontract negotiation.
- Demonstrable experience supporting proposal development and evaluation.
- Strong organisational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
- Knowledge of procurement processes, documents, and contract/Subcontract management.
- Good awareness of contract law and commercial fundamentals.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office tools with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Preferred:
- CIPS qualification.
- Understanding of export/import controls, including ITAR.
If you meet most—but not all—of the criteria, we still encourage you to apply. We value potential as much as experience.
Security Clearance: Due to the nature of our work, this role requires the ability to obtain and maintain UK Government security clearance.
What We Offer:
- Flexible working options, including the ability to adopt a compressed fortnight.
- Private healthcare coverage.
- Cash health plan for everyday medical costs.
- Holiday buy and sell options.
- Career development programmes and opportunities for progression.
- Performance‑based bonuses.
Why Join Northrop Grumman UK?
A Mission to Believe In: Every day, you’ll contribute to building a more secure and connected world. Your work has purpose, impact, and scale.
A Place to Belong and Thrive: We celebrate individuality and ensure every voice is heard. You’ll join a diverse, supportive team that values collaboration and inclusion.
Your Career, Your Way: With access to mentorship, internal mobility, and continuous learning, your career path is yours to shape.
Ready to Apply?
- Yes: Submit your application online today.
- Possibly: Want to learn more? Contact us at .
- Not right now: Explore our other opportunities. 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 Manager in Cheltenham employer: Northrop Grumman
Contact Detail:
Northrop Grumman Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Northrop Grumman UK on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching common supply chain challenges and solutions. Show us you’re not just about the basics; bring some innovative ideas to the table that align with our mission of driving innovation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since supplier relationship management is key, be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully navigated tough negotiations in the past. We love hearing about real-life examples!
✨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.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supply Chain Manager role. Highlight your experience in supplier relationship management and subcontract negotiation, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you're passionate about supply chain management and how you can contribute to our mission at Northrop Grumman UK. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention your understanding of procurement processes.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, emphasise your strong organisational and analytical skills. We love candidates who can tackle complex challenges, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated tricky situations in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northrop Grumman
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management principles and practices. Be ready to discuss how you’ve developed supplier networks and managed relationships in previous roles. This will show that you understand the complexities of the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve hypothetical supply chain challenges. Think about past experiences where you successfully navigated complex situations, and be prepared to explain your thought process and the outcomes. This demonstrates your problem-solving skills and ability to handle pressure.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since negotiation is key in this role, come prepared with examples of successful negotiations you've led. Highlight your approach to evaluating supplier proposals and establishing pricing agreements. This will illustrate your capability to deliver best value and safeguard commercial interests.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement Mindset
Northrop Grumman values innovation and efficiency, so be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to continuous improvement in your previous roles. Share specific examples of how you’ve collaborated with teams to enhance supply chain processes, as this aligns with their mission of driving innovation.