At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global supply strategy and optimise a complex international product portfolio.
- Company: Join a leading Pharmaceutical organisation with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to influence global strategy.
- Other info: Be part of a high-performing team driving meaningful change.
- Why this job: Shape the future of supply chain in a dynamic and evolving environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in supply chain leadership within pharma or chemicals.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Walker Cole International is searching for a Head of Supply Chain to join a leading Pharmaceutical organisation. Are you a strategic supply chain leader ready to shape and optimise a global network in a highly regulated environment? We’re looking for a Head of Supply Management (Specialty) to lead end-to-end supply strategy across a complex, international product portfolio. This is a high-impact leadership role where you’ll drive performance, resilience, and innovation across manufacturing and distribution.
Responsibilities
- Lead the S&OP / integrated business planning process across specialty products
- Own the global supply strategy, balancing demand, capacity, cost, and service
- Partner with internal teams and external manufacturers to ensure reliable supply
- Drive continuous improvement, cost optimisation, and operational efficiency
- Oversee inventory strategy, forecasting, and supply planning
- Ensure full compliance with global regulatory standards (GMP / GDP / FDA / EMA)
- Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing supply chain team
- Play a key role in long-term strategic planning and business growth
Qualifications
- 10+ years’ supply chain leadership experience within pharma or chemicals
- Strong expertise across end-to-end supply chain (S&OP, planning, procurement, manufacturing)
- Experience working with contract manufacturers and global supply networks
- Proven leadership capability with experience building and developing teams
- Strong commercial acumen and negotiation experience
- SAP/APO (SNP / PP-DS) experience preferred
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
Why this role?
This is a chance to take ownership of a critical function, influence global strategy, and drive meaningful change in a growing and evolving organisation. You’ll be at the centre of decision-making, working cross-functionally to deliver real business impact. If you’re a strategic thinker who thrives in complex environments and enjoys building high-performing teams, we’d love to hear from you.
Head of Supply Chain in Newbury employer: Walker Cole International
Walker Cole International is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leaders can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and a culture of innovation, you will have the opportunity to shape global supply strategies in the pharmaceutical sector while collaborating with talented professionals. Located in a vibrant industry hub, this role not only promises meaningful impact but also provides access to a network of resources and support for your career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Supply Chain in Newbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend 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 Head of Supply Chain role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its supply chain processes. We recommend practising your answers to common questions, especially around S&OP and compliance. Show them you’re the strategic leader they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, share examples of how you’ve built and inspired high-performing teams. We want to see your commercial acumen and negotiation prowess in action.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Head of Supply Chain position!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supply Chain in Newbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in supply chain leadership, especially in pharma or chemicals, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the responsibilities listed.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Supply Chain role. Mention your strategic thinking and how you’ve driven performance and innovation in previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Include examples of how you've built and developed high-performing teams. Talk about your experience in influencing senior stakeholders and driving change in complex environments.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Walker Cole International
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the end-to-end supply chain processes, especially in the pharmaceutical sector. Brush up on S&OP, procurement, and manufacturing strategies, as these will be key discussion points during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience and how you've built high-performing teams. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced and how you inspired your team to overcome them.
✨Understand Regulatory Standards
Familiarise yourself with global regulatory standards like GMP, GDP, FDA, and EMA. Being able to discuss compliance and how it impacts supply chain strategy will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for this role.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You’ll need to influence senior stakeholders, so being able to communicate your ideas effectively is crucial. Consider mock interviews to refine your delivery.
