Supply Chain Manager

Supply Chain Manager

Location: North Essex - commutable from Colchester, Ipswich, Witham
Salary: £40,000–£50,000

Own transport required due to location

We are seeking a commercially minded Procurement & Projects Costings Manager to take ownership of project estimating, cost control and procurement within a specialist manufacturing business.

This is a hands-on role combining strategic purchasing with project costings. You will play a key part in ensuring projects are accurately priced, commercially viable and delivered within budget, working closely with Sales, Finance, Projects and international suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

* Prepare detailed project estimates, material take-offs and cost build-ups from technical drawings, specifications and client briefs.

* Obtain and negotiate supplier pricing to support accurate customer quotations and protect project margins.

* Manage project costs from initial estimate through to delivery, monitoring budgets, expenditure and forecast costs.

* Identify cost variances, risks and opportunities for improved profitability.

* Manage day-to-day procurement, including supplier selection, purchasing, order management and delivery expediting.

* Evaluate UK and international sourcing, freight, import duties and overall landed costs.

* Build strong supplier relationships and identify opportunities for cost savings and supply chain improvements.

About You

* Proven experience in procurement within a manufacturing and project-based environment.

* CIPS Level 4 or equivalent

* Confident interpreting technical drawings, specifications and bills of materials.

* Strong understanding of cost build-ups, quantity take-offs and project margin control.

* Experienced in supplier negotiation, purchasing and international procurement.

* Excellent Excel skills with strong analytical and commercial awareness.

* Highly organised, accurate and confident communicating across different departments