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- Tasks: Lead the supply chain function, ensuring operational resilience and compliance.
- Company: CalMac Ferries, part of the David MacBrayne Group, known for its supportive culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, excellent pension, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of supply chain in a respected Scottish organisation.
- Qualifications: Professional procurement qualification and senior supply chain leadership experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop a multi-disciplined team and modernise operations.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
CalMac Ferries, part of the David MacBrayne Group, is seeking a Head of Supply Chain. This is a senior, influential leadership role focused on resilience, risk management and operational protection—not a traditional transactional procurement position. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you’ll lead the end-to-end supply chain function across procurement, central purchasing, supplier and contract management. Your purpose is to ensure operations are never compromised, while maintaining robust governance and full compliance with Scottish Government procurement legislation.
You’ll balance long-term strategic priorities, including supplier rationalisation, contract optimisation, and systems and process improvement, with urgent operational demands such as fleet maintenance and unplanned issues. When pressure is high, you’ll be the calm, credible expert who can find compliant solutions quickly and keep stakeholders aligned.
You’ll also lead and develop a multi-disciplined team, building capability, confidence and professionalism, and bringing people with you as the function continues to modernise.
What we’re looking for:
- Holds a professional procurement qualification (ideally CIPS, or equivalent)
- Has led a supply chain or procurement function at a senior level
- Brings a strong governance and risk mindset (public sector experience is helpful, but not essential)
- Has deep experience in supplier performance and contract management, not just procurement
- Is comfortable operating in complex, pressured, operational environments
- Communicates with clarity, confidence and credibility at all levels
- Experience in transport, engineering, utilities or other regulated environments would be advantageous.
Why this is a standout opportunity:
- The chance to lead a business-critical function with real social impact
- A supportive, down-to-earth culture that values practicality over polish
- The opportunity to shape how the supply chain supports an iconic Scottish organisation for the long term
- Excellent benefits, hybrid working and a truly outstanding pension
For the right person, this is more than a role - it’s a chance to make a visible difference, lead with purpose, and leave a lasting legacy within a nationally respected organisation.
If you are interested in hearing more, please contact kelsie.patterson@symedrummond.co.uk or apply now!
Head of Supply Chain Management in Gourock employer: Syme Drummond
Contact Detail:
Syme Drummond Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Supply Chain Management in Gourock
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the supply chain field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain operations. Understand their challenges and think about how your experience can help them navigate those issues. This will show you’re not just interested in the role, but genuinely invested in their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you’ve successfully managed supply chains in the past. Highlight your governance and risk management skills, as these are key for the Head of Supply Chain role.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supply Chain Management in Gourock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in supply chain management, governance, and risk management. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Head of Supply Chain Management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this leadership role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and managed complex supply chains in the past. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your professional procurement qualifications, like CIPS. If you have experience in regulated environments or public sector roles, make sure to highlight that too. We’re looking for someone who ticks all the boxes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Syme Drummond
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the supply chain landscape, especially in the context of the transport and utilities sectors. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and best practices. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you've successfully developed teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you've built capability and confidence within a team, especially in high-pressure situations. This will highlight your ability to lead and modernise the supply chain function effectively.
✨Emphasise Governance and Risk Management
Given the importance of governance and risk management in this role, be ready to share your experiences in these areas. Discuss how you've ensured compliance with procurement legislation and managed supplier performance. This will show that you understand the critical nature of these aspects in a public sector environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Anticipate scenario-based questions that may test your problem-solving skills under pressure. Think about past experiences where you had to find compliant solutions quickly. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills during the interview.
