At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise our supply chain in a cutting-edge RF manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Steatite, a leader in advanced technology solutions for demanding environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, pension plans, and profit-sharing opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of supply chain management in a tech-driven, impactful role.
- Qualifications: Experience in supply chain leadership within regulated manufacturing is essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Security Clearance: This role is subject to successful completion of SC clearance prior to commencement. Please review our Security Clearance Guidance for Applicants before applying.
About Us
At Steatite, we design, manufacture, and supply advanced technology solutions — from industrial embedded computing and custom lithium battery packs to secure communications, antennas, and imaging systems. Our innovations operate in some of the world’s most demanding environments. From the ocean floor to the edge of space, Steatite technology ensures critical systems perform reliably, consistently, and safely — 24/7. Whether enabling scientific discovery in extreme conditions, transmitting high‑bandwidth data across challenging terrain, processing vast volumes of traffic data, or supporting secure transactions on the move, our solutions are built to perform when it matters most. From day one, you will be part of an organisation that prioritises your safety and wellbeing, values your contribution, and is committed to making your career both rewarding and impactful.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Supply Chain Manager to lead, optimise, and future‑prove our end‑to‑end supply chain within a highly specialised RF manufacturing environment. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring material availability, supplier performance, cost control, and operational excellence across a low‑volume, high‑complexity manufacturing operation. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, you will develop and execute supply chain strategies that support business growth, customer delivery requirements, and operational capability. Our business designs and manufactures bespoke RF components, assemblies, and sub‑systems for customers operating in the defence, aerospace, communications, and advanced technology sectors. As we continue to scale our operations and strengthen our delivery performance, you will play a critical role in building a resilient, agile, and high‑performing supply chain function.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Supply Chain Leadership: Develop and implement a supply chain strategy aligned with business objectives, customer requirements, and future growth plans. Lead procurement, planning, logistics, and materials management activities across the full product lifecycle. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reduce lead times, and improve cost competitiveness.
- Supplier Management & Sourcing: Build and maintain strong relationships with specialist suppliers across RF, electronics, machining, PCB assembly, and precision engineering sectors. Identify, qualify, and onboard new suppliers to enhance capability, capacity, and supply chain resilience. Negotiate contracts, pricing agreements, and service levels to secure best value and minimise supply risk. Monitor supplier performance through KPIs and implement corrective actions where necessary.
- Operational Planning & Materials Control: Oversee demand planning, MRP activities, and inventory optimisation to support on‑time delivery performance. Ensure robust configuration control and full traceability of materials and components. Work closely with engineering and production teams to manage long lead‑time items, prototype builds, and design‑for‑manufacture considerations.
- Logistics & Compliance: Manage inbound and outbound logistics activities, including export controls, customs documentation, and compliance requirements. Ensure adherence to relevant quality, regulatory, and environmental standards, including ISO9001, AS9100, RoHS, and REACH.
- Leadership & Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Lead, mentor, and develop a small supply chain team, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with engineering, production, quality, and commercial teams to support successful project delivery. Provide regular reporting and insights to senior leadership on supply chain performance, risks, opportunities, and improvement initiatives.
Skills & Experience
We're looking for a supply chain professional who combines strategic thinking with operational excellence and has experience working within a technically complex manufacturing environment. You will ideally have:
- Proven experience in a Supply Chain Manager or senior supply chain leadership role within RF, electronics, aerospace, defence, or a similarly regulated manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of low‑volume, high‑complexity engineering and manufacturing supply chains.
- Demonstrable experience in supplier development, strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and performance management.
- Strong knowledge of MRP/ERP systems and the ability to use data to drive decision‑making and continuous improvement.
- Understanding of export controls, ITAR/EAR considerations, and other regulated industry requirements.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the business.
- Degree qualification in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
- CIPS qualification or working towards accreditation would be advantageous.
Why Join Us
This is an opportunity to shape and lead the supply chain function within a growing, technology‑driven manufacturing business operating at the forefront of RF engineering. You will have the autonomy to influence strategy, develop supplier partnerships, and drive meaningful improvements that directly impact business performance and customer success. Working alongside a highly skilled engineering and leadership team, you’ll play a key role in supporting the delivery of complex, bespoke solutions used in some of the world’s most demanding defence, aerospace, communications, and advanced technology applications.
Benefits For You
- EV Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- 26 Days Annual Leave Plus Bank Holidays + More For Length of Service
- Pensions Plan
- Company Sick Pay Scheme
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Profit Share Scheme
- All Employee Share Plan
We are an equal opportunity employer fostering an inclusive recruitment experience for all candidates.
Supply Chain Manager employer: Steatite Ltd
At Steatite, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values your contributions and prioritises your safety and wellbeing. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and continuous improvement, providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a cutting-edge technology environment. With competitive benefits such as an EV salary sacrifice scheme, generous annual leave, and a profit share scheme, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact in the defence, aerospace, and advanced technology sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the supply chain and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Steatite and its innovations. Understand their products and how they operate in demanding environments. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. Think of specific situations where you've demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, or supplier management skills. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can handle the complexities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Steatite and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Supply Chain Manager and tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our needs.
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When you're putting together your CV and cover letter, focus on your experience in supply chain management, especially in RF or similar environments. We want to see how you've tackled challenges and driven improvements in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and achievements. We appreciate clarity and brevity!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Steatite Ltd
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding supply chain management principles, especially in RF and electronics. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and trends in these sectors, as well as Steatite's unique offerings. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or improved operational efficiency. Be ready to discuss how you would approach similar challenges at Steatite.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Supply Chain Manager, you'll be leading a team and collaborating across departments. Be prepared to talk about your leadership style and how you foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Share specific instances where you've mentored team members or driven cross-functional collaboration.
✨Understand Compliance and Regulatory Standards
Given the nature of Steatite's work, it's crucial to have a solid grasp of compliance and regulatory standards like ISO9001 and AS9100. Brush up on these standards and be ready to discuss how you've ensured adherence in previous roles. This will highlight your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
