Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and driven Supply Chain Manager to join a leading Tier 1 automotive manufacturing business. This role is responsible for overseeing and optimising the end-to-end supply chain, ensuring the seamless flow of materials from suppliers through to production and delivery to OEM customers.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining high service levels, supporting production schedules, and driving continuous improvement across supply chain operations within a fast-paced, just-in-time (JIT) environment.
Key Responsibilities
Supply Chain Management
- Lead and manage the end-to-end supply chain function including planning, procurement, logistics, and inventory control
- Ensure material availability to support production schedules while optimising inventory levels
- Develop and implement supply chain strategies aligned with business objectives
- Manage demand forecasting and production planning processes
Supplier Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure performance against quality, cost, and delivery targets
- Conduct supplier performance reviews and drive improvement plans where required
- Support supplier selection, onboarding, and risk management activities
- Monitor supplier capacity and mitigate supply risks proactively
Operational Excellence
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
- Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities across the supply chain
- Improve processes related to planning, logistics, and inventory management
- Ensure adherence to automotive quality standards and compliance requirements
Logistics & Inventory Control
- Oversee inbound and outbound logistics operations, including warehousing and transport
- Manage inventory accuracy, stock levels, and working capital targets
- Ensure efficient material flow and minimisation of waste
Customer & Stakeholder Management
- Work closely with OEM customers to ensure on-time delivery and service excellence
- Collaborate cross-functionally with production, engineering, quality, and commercial teams
- Act as the key escalation point for supply chain disruptions
Team Leadership
- Lead, develop, and mentor the supply chain team
- Set clear objectives and KPIs, monitoring team performance
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and high performance
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-Time Delivery (OTD) to customers
- Inventory turns and stock accuracy
- Supplier performance (OTIF, quality, cost)
- Production line stoppages due to material shortages
- Working capital and cost reduction targets
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Proven experience in a Supply Chain Manager or senior supply chain role within automotive or advanced manufacturing (Tier 1 preferred)
- Strong understanding of JIT, JIS, and lean manufacturing principles
- Experience managing supplier relationships and driving performance improvement
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
Desirable
- APICS / CIPS / Lean Six Sigma certification
- Experience working with OEM customers
- Knowledge of automotive quality standards (e.g., IATF 16949)
- Project management experience
Personal Attributes
- Results-driven with a proactive and hands-on approach
- Strong leadership and team development capabilities
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
- Continuous improvement mindset
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Gleeson Recruitment Limited. Our Privacy Policy is available on our website and explains how we will use your data.
