An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Commodity Manager - Direct Materials to join a leading aerospace manufacturing organisation. This role focuses on developing and executing sourcing strategies, managing a critical supplier base, and ensuring a secure, cost‑effective, and high‑quality supply of direct materials that support production.
This position sits within a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment, requiring strong commercial acumen, supplier management capability, and the ability to mitigate risk across the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
- Develop and deliver sourcing strategies for direct material categories.
- Manage, evaluate and continuously improve supplier performance against cost, delivery, and quality KPIs.
- Conduct supplier audits, performance reviews, and corrective action plans.
- Lead supplier relationship management to secure long‑term value and drive continuous improvement.
Contract & Commercial Management
- Lead commercial negotiations to secure favourable contract terms.
- Analyse cost structures and identify opportunities for cost savings and value engineering.
- Oversee contract lifecycle management, ensuring compliance with agreed terms.
Operational Procurement Support
- Collaborate closely with Production, Planning, Engineering, and Quality to understand material requirements.
- Support NPI activities by identifying suitable suppliers and securing required capacity.
- Quickly resolve supply issues to prevent production disruption.
Market & Data Analysis
- Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends, and supply risks.
- Conduct benchmarking studies and evaluate competitive alternatives.
- Use data-driven insight to inform strategy, identify savings, and drive improvement initiatives.
Cross-functional Collaboration
- Partner with internal stakeholders across engineering, operations, finance, and quality.
- Contribute to budget planning, cost forecasting, and strategic procurement initiatives.
- Support sustainability and compliance objectives across the supplier network.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
- Strong experience in supplier evaluation, supplier development, and performance management.
- Proven success negotiating long-term supplier agreements and delivering cost optimisation.
- Background in purchasing or strategic sourcing within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and market trends.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC).
- Must have lived in the UK continuously for the last 5 years (due to clearance requirements).
Desirable:
- Experience within aerospace, automotive, defence, or complex engineering sectors.
- Knowledge of direct material categories such as machined components, metals, castings, or electronics.
- Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
- CIPS qualification (or working towards).
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