At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop supply chain strategy in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Leading ambient and chilled food manufacturer in Scotland.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape strategy and drive performance in a growing sector.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact and lead meaningful change in food manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in supply chain, ideally in food manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
A leading ambient and chilled food manufacturer in Scotland is seeking an experienced Head of Supply Chain to lead end-to-end supply chain operations across planning, procurement, warehousing, logistics, and supplier management. This is a senior leadership role with significant influence across the full value chain, ensuring products are delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with customer demand.
The Role
- Lead and develop the end-to-end supply chain strategy to support business growth and operational performance.
- Manage and develop teams across planning, procurement, inbound/outbound logistics, and inventory.
- Oversee demand forecasting, supply planning, stock management, and service performance.
- Build strong supplier partnerships focused on quality, cost, innovation, and continuity of supply.
- Work closely with operations and commercial teams to align production, customer demand, and business priorities.
- Drive warehousing, logistics, and distribution efficiency while maintaining high customer service levels.
- Own key supply chain KPIs, budgets, risk management, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (BRC, HACCP, etc.).
What We’re Looking For
- Significant leadership experience within supply chain, ideally in chilled or ambient manufacturing.
- Strong understanding of S&OP, procurement, logistics, inventory optimisation, and supplier management.
- Proven experience supplying major UK retailers and managing service, cost, and performance in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to lead high-performing teams and influence across operations, commercial, finance, and technical functions.
- Strong knowledge of food safety and regulatory standards.
- A strategic thinker with a hands-on, results-driven approach and a passion for continuous improvement.
Why This Role?
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior supply chain professional to make a significant impact in a dynamic, growing food manufacturing environment. If you’re looking for a leadership role where you can shape strategy, drive performance, and lead meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.
Strategic Head of Supply Chain - Food Manufacturing employer: Protea Recruitment Ltd | Food | Drinks | FMCG Recruitment Partner
As a leading ambient and chilled food manufacturer in Scotland, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel. With a strong focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and the chance to influence key supply chain strategies in a dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a team that values quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with the highest food safety standards.
Contact Details:
Protea Recruitment Ltd | Food | Drinks | FMCG Recruitment Partner Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Head of Supply Chain - Food Manufacturing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local supply chain events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain operations. We recommend jotting down key points about their products and recent news. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in supply chain management and how it aligns with the role. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Head of Supply Chain - Food Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Strategic Head of Supply Chain. Highlight your leadership experience and specific achievements in supply chain management, especially in food manufacturing. We want to see how you’ve driven performance and led teams!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your skills align with our needs. Be sure to mention your understanding of S&OP, procurement, and logistics, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you improve service levels or reduce costs? We love numbers that demonstrate your impact, so don’t hold back on sharing those successes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protea Recruitment Ltd | Food | Drinks | FMCG Recruitment Partner
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of supply chain management, especially in the food manufacturing sector. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in areas like procurement, logistics, and inventory optimisation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leading teams and influencing across various functions. Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in managing high-performing teams and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
✨Understand the Company’s Values and Goals
Research the company’s mission and values, especially their approach to food safety and quality standards. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in supply chain operations and how you overcame them, particularly in fast-paced environments serving major UK retailers.
