Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Supply Chain to lead their supply chain operations. This role is responsible for overseeing procurement, warehousing, and fleet management, ensuring that the overall supply chain process operates efficiently and meets business objectives. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with internal teams, suppliers, and stakeholders to optimize supply chain functions, including procurement, inventory, distribution, and logistics. The role involves working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that demands strong multitasking and prioritization skills. Occasional travel to supplier sites and warehouses will be required.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement & Supplier Management:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of quality materials.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms.
- Monitor supplier performance, addressing any issues related to quality, delivery, or compliance.
- Evaluate and select new suppliers based on cost, quality, and reliability.
Inventory Management:
- Oversee inventory levels to avoid overstock or shortages.
- Develop strategies to optimize inventory turnover and reduce carrying costs.
Logistics & Distribution:
- Manage the transportation of raw materials and finished goods to ensure timely deliveries.
- Collaborate with logistics partners to optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve delivery efficiency.
- Address challenges related to shipping, customs, and regulatory compliance.
Demand Forecasting & Planning:
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create accurate demand forecasts.
- Align supply chain processes with forecasted demands to support production schedules and timely deliveries.
Cost Management & Optimization:
- Identify opportunities to reduce costs while maintaining product quality.
- Conduct cost-benefit analyses for different suppliers, logistics methods, and inventory strategies.
- Ensure all supply chain activities align with budgetary and financial targets.
Quality Control & Compliance:
- Ensure all materials and processes comply with industry standards and regulations.
- Implement quality control measures to maintain product integrity.
- Collaborate with quality teams to resolve any issues related to product defects.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, train, and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Support team members in achieving their objectives and improving overall department performance.
- Work closely with cross-functional teams such as engineering, production, and sales.
Data Analysis & Reporting:
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as lead times, costs, inventory turnover, and supplier performance.
- Provide regular reports to senior management on supply chain performance and improvement opportunities.
- Use data analytics to drive decision-making in procurement, logistics, and inventory management.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience: 10+ years of experience in supply chain management, ideally in industries such as electrical equipment, construction, or infrastructure.
Certifications: APICS, CSCP, or Lean Six Sigma certifications are highly desirable.
Skills & Competencies:
Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers and logistics partners.
Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to analyse data and make decisions based on insights.
Problem-Solving: Skilled in identifying and resolving supply chain disruptions.
Leadership & Communication: Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and engage with internal and external stakeholders.
Technical Proficiency: Expertise in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and supply chain management software.