Role Overview:
We are actively seeking a dynamic and hands-on Supply Chain Manager to oversee two sites within a globally recognised manufacturing company, operating across 19 locations (12 in the EU). Reporting to both the VP of Supply Chain for Europe and the site leadership team, you will drive supply chain processes to enhance manufacturing capabilities. This is a critical leadership role with an opportunity to lead transformational change in supply chain operations, people, and processes.
Compulsory Requirements:
- German Language - Business Professional
- English Language - Business Professional
- MUST have experience in Purchasing - Procurement
- MUST be able to work on-site full time
- Experience within manufacturing industry
Key Responsibilities:
- Operational Leadership: You will drive the supply chain function to support manufacturing capabilities across multiple departments, including purchasing, material management, inventory control, and logistics. This requires a deep understanding of operational supply chain in a manufacturing setting, with strong collaboration across finance, manufacturing, and sales.
- Process Improvement: Lead the design and implementation of improved processes, including better inventory management and more efficient purchasing. You'll manage dual reporting lines and collaborate across sites to learn and apply best practices, focusing on process optimisation and transformational change management.
- Team Leadership: Oversee supply chain teams across two sites, leading a direct team of 8 reports and an indirect team of 30-40 people. Your leadership will guide the performance improvement journey, ensuring alignment across purchasing, materials management, inventory control, and logistics. Key priorities include procurement and purchasing expertise to drive cost and efficiency improvements.
Skills & Experience Required:
- Background in Supply Chain Management: Previous experience in an operational supply chain role within a manufacturing environment.
- Procurement Expertise: Strong purchasing experience is a must, along with skills in material management, inventory control, and supply chain process development.
- Leadership: Proven track record of leading and managing teams across multiple sites, with a focus on improving performance and driving transformation.
- Project & Change Management: Experience in overseeing large-scale projects and leading change initiatives.
- Technical & Business Acumen: Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, particularly in finance, manufacturing, and sales, to support production goals.
- Language Requirements: Fluent in business-level German (not just conversational) and proficient in English for interviews and day-to-day communication.
What We're Looking For:
We need someone who is eager to roll up their sleeves and take charge. You should bring energy, passion, and excitement to the role - leadership and communication skills are just as important as technical expertise. A variety of industry experience is welcome, but you must understand manufacturing processes and have a strong operational mindset, particularly in working with multiple raw materials and engineering challenges.
Additional Requirements:
- Willingness to relocate, with a clear reason for doing so.
- On-site presence required 4 days per week, based at one of the primary locations, with travel to the second site.
- No specific industry background required, but a deep understanding of manufacturing is essential.
