At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement and supplier management in a fast-growing clean tech company.
- Company: Dynamic UK-based clean technology manufacturing business focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid work model, and potential for contract extension or permanent role.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a rapidly scaling organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-growth environment while driving sustainable practices.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in supply chain, strong negotiation skills, and analytical mindset.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are supporting a fast-scaling UK-based clean technology manufacturing business as it moves from low-volume production into a high-growth, industrialised manufacturing phase. They are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager / Procurement Consultant to take ownership of a key commodity area and help drive supplier performance, cost optimisation, and scalable procurement processes. This is a hands-on, commercially focused role suited to someone who thrives in complex, fast-moving environments where supply chain decisions directly impact product delivery and business growth.
Role Overview
You will take end-to-end ownership of a defined commodity area, managing supplier relationships, procurement activity, and commercial performance. The role requires strong negotiation capability, analytical thinking, and the ability to operate autonomously within a scaling organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage purchase activity, inventory tracking, and demand-driven procurement adjustments
- Own strategic supplier relationships and lead regular performance reviews
- Drive commercial negotiations including pricing, contracts, and long-term value agreements
- Act as the primary commercial interface between suppliers, engineering, and quality teams
- Lead full sourcing cycles from RFQ/RFI through to contract award
- Identify and onboard new suppliers focused on cost, quality, sustainability, and lead time
- Deliver cost reduction initiatives and support ongoing product cost-down activity
- Analyse supplier and cost data to generate insights and improve decision-making
- Develop and improve procurement processes to support scaling operations
- Support wider business needs across operations when required
Skills & Experience Required
- 5+ years’ experience in procurement / supply chain within manufacturing or similar environments
- Strong commercial negotiation and supplier management experience
- Proven ability to analyse quotations and challenge supplier pricing structures
- Good understanding of manufacturing cost drivers
- Experience working with ERP systems
- Strong analytical, organisational, and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
- Experience with electrical components or harness-related commodities is highly beneficial
- Willingness to travel to suppliers when required
Contract Details
- Outside IR35 (QDOS)
- UK-based (hybrid / site travel as required)
- Immediate start preferred
This is an opportunity to play a key role in shaping procurement and supply chain capability during a critical scale-up phase of a high-growth engineering business. There are scopes for extensions and even a permanent transition for the right person.
Supply Chain Manager in Guildford employer: X4 Technology
Join a dynamic and innovative clean technology manufacturing business that prioritises sustainability and growth. As a Supply Chain Manager, you will thrive in a collaborative work culture that values your expertise and offers ample opportunities for professional development. With a focus on impactful projects and a commitment to employee well-being, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to a greener future while advancing your career in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Manager in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the supply chain and procurement space. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your achievements in supplier management and cost optimisation. Use real examples to demonstrate how you've driven performance in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like the one we're supporting, and express your interest in contributing to their growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to connect with exciting opportunities. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team and ready to take on the challenges ahead.
We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Manager in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Supply Chain Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and supplier management, especially in manufacturing. We want to see how your skills align with our fast-paced environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your negotiation successes and how you've driven cost optimisation in previous roles. We love a good story that showcases your impact!
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical thinking, don’t shy away from showcasing your ability to analyse data and make informed decisions. Include any relevant tools or systems you’ve used to support your analysis – we’re all about data-driven decisions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at X4 Technology
✨Know Your Supply Chain Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's supply chain processes and their specific challenges. Familiarise yourself with their products and how they fit into the renewables sector. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the role and how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you achieved significant cost savings or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach to commercial negotiations, as this is a key aspect of the role. Highlight your analytical thinking and how it has led to successful outcomes in previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Prowess
Bring along data or case studies that showcase your ability to analyse supplier and cost data effectively. Discuss how you've used insights from data to drive decision-making and improve procurement processes. This will show that you can add value right from the start.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment. Think about potential challenges in scaling operations and how you would address them. This will help you illustrate your hands-on experience and readiness to take ownership of the role.
