Supply Chain Manager

The Supply Chain Manager oversees all internal supply chain operations, including Purchasing Administration, Production Planning, Warehouse Management, Shipping, and Despatch. The role ensures materials and products flow efficiently through the business, supporting production, customer delivery, and operational performance. Note: This role does not include supplier relationship management or supplier performance oversight. Key Responsibilities 1. Purchasing (Internal Administration Only) * Manage the internal purchasing process, ensuring timely creation, approval, and tracking of purchase orders. * Maintain accurate purchasing data within the ERP system (lead times, order quantities, pricing provided by others). * Coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure materials and components are ordered in line with production requirements. * Monitor open orders and ensure internal teams are updated on expected delivery dates. * Support Finance with invoice matching and resolving PO discrepancies. 2. Production & Material Planning * Lead the planning function to ensure accurate forecasting, scheduling, and capacity planning. * Maintain MRP/ERP data accuracy to support reliable planning outputs. * Balance inventory levels with demand to minimise shortages and excess stock. * Work closely with Operations to align production plans with customer orders and business priorities. * Communicate plan changes clearly across departments. 3. Warehouse & Inventory Management * Oversee warehouse operations including goods‑in, storage, stock rotation, picking, and goods‑out. * Ensure accurate inventory control through cycle counts, stock checks, and reconciliation. * Maintain compliance with health & safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. * Drive improvements in accuracy, efficiency, and space utilisation. 4. Shipping & Despatch * Manage outbound logistics to ensure on‑time, accurate, and cost‑effective delivery to customers. * Coordinate with carriers and internal teams to schedule collections and shipments. * Ensure all despatch documentation is accurate and compliant. * Monitor delivery performance and resolve internal logistics issues promptly. * Maintain clear communication with Customer Service regarding order status and despatch timing. 5. Leadership & Continuous Improvement * Lead, coach, and develop the Supply Chain team across purchasing admin, planning, warehouse, and logistics. * Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service levels. * Develop and maintain KPIs across all supply chain functions. * Collaborate with Operations, Sales, Quality, and Finance to support business objectives. Skills & Experience Required Essential: Experience in a Supply Chain Manager or similar operational supply chain leadership role. Strong understanding of planning, warehousing, logistics, and internal purchasing processes. Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems. Excellent organisational and communication skills. Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities. Ability to lead and motivate multi‑disciplinary teams. Knowledge of health & safety and compliance standards. Desirable: Experience in manufacturing, engineering, or FMCG environments. CIPS qualification (even if the role doesn’t manage suppliers, it’s still valued). Lean/Continuous Improvement training. Experience with international shipping processes. Personal Attributes: Proactive and solutions‑focused. Highly organised with strong attention to detail. Calm under pressure and able to manage competing priorities. Strong communicator who works well cross‑functionally