Team Lead - Supply Chain

The team lead is responsible for team management of a group of buyers within the supply chain delivery team and reports directly to the supply chain delivery manager. They are responsible for cost effective purchasing of all production and consumable materials within the scope and ensuring on time delivery through developed processes, ensuring they are adhered to the agreed standard. Deputise for supply chain delivery manager.

Responsibilities

• Provide coordination and leadership in procurement activities for assigned commodities.
• Apply expertise in Materials Management and Purchasing policies in coaching buyers.
• Compliance to departmental policies; procedures.
• Develop processes and standards and ensure the team is operating to the through their KPIS & team management meetings.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for buying related issues for triage and escalation purposes. May also be responsible for the purchasing of complex accounts where required.
• Ensure risks are highlighted through the management system with corrective actions. Connecting the management team to the issue in a timely manner to reduce the risk to any disruptions within operations.
• The post holder will ensure all resources are primarily focused on delivering the requirements including the forecast and delivery of parts and material, process improvements, service re-design and improved outcomes within budget.
• Maintain a safe and healthy work environment by following standards and procedures, complying with legal regulations.
• Demonstrate professional approach when dealing with external/internal suppliers in both written and verbal form of communication.
• Collaborate on development of a people strategy for the department and manage deployment of such within team. This should provide a framework for team performance evaluation/feedback, training needs identification/validation and individual employee development plans.
• Effective control and implementation of all relevant QAF standard documentation.
• Take ownership and implement root cause corrective actions against non-conforming suppliers.
• Reduce material costs, lead time and logistical costs while maintaining quality and delivery.
• Reduction of inventory holding, associated transactional costs and E&O.

Rewards

• Competitive salary.
• Annual bonus (linked to company performance).
• 33 days annual leave (Increase after 5 years' service).
• 37.5 hours per week.
• Flexi time working.
• £5,000 employee referral bonus.
• Health cash plan.
• Contributory Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme - Salary Sacrifice.
• Electric Car Scheme - Salary Sacrifice.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Life Assurance Scheme at x4 gross salary.
• Competitive enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay.
• IVF & Assisted Conception Policy.
• Women in Business Membership.
• Wellbeing Initiatives.
• Employee Recognition scheme.
• Long Service Awards.
• Local charity / sponsorship activities.
• Dedicated employee parking.
• Discounted Gym membership.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Career progression.

Requirements

Essential

• Knowledge of the ERP/MRP systems used within the procurement industry is recommended, as well as the Microsoft Office package - including Excel, PowerPoint and Word.
• Knowledge of problem-solving tools such as 3C's, 8D's and components of lean/continuous improvement work environment.
• Good organisation and project management skills, with an ability to build relationships with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership skills that ensure supply chain is aligned to all departments within the broader business. Empowers and motivates while inspiring confidence and respect from others. Should possess good collaborative and communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills necessary to deal at highest levels of commercial supplier organisations, to influence internally and negotiate externally with suppliers.
• Manages time well and effectively, including personal attendance and on time performance. Ability to multitask and adjust to changing priorities.
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.
• Previous experience of managing, supporting and directing teams.

Desirable

• CIPS accreditation or a relevant related degree is desirable but not essential dependant on industry experience.

We reserve the right to enhance criteria on shortlisting. Thompson Aero Seating is an Equal Opportunities employer. The closing date for applications is the 1st February 2026 at 17:00. To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Apply button below to Login/Register.