Global Supply Chain Manager | Lead Strategic Manufacturing Operations Worldwide
Location: Flexible / Travel Required
Role Type: Full-Time | Senior Executive Level
Application Deadline: Now open – early applications encouraged
 
A rare opportunity has opened for a seasoned Global Supply Chain Manager to lead the full transformation and strategic execution of a supply chain operation that spans continents, suppliers, and manufacturing technologies.
This role is suited for a candidate with deep expertise in precision manufacturing, global sourcing, and cross-functional leadership.

You will take full ownership of the end-to-end supply chain function, guiding the business through its next phase of growth and operational excellence.
 
Immediate Priorities

- Develop and execute a long-term, multi-tiered global supply chain strategy to support the current and future scale of the business.
- Drive improvements in manufacturing capacity, delivering at a cost, quality, and lead time that creates sustainable long-term value.
- Lead the development and management of all supply chain activities across the business, with full operational and strategic responsibility.

 
Key Responsibilities
 

- Define and implement supply chain strategies that ensure the sustainable delivery of machined components and fully manufactured products through trusted global partners.
- Ensure that all supply chain activities are aligned with engineering specifications, manufacturing standards, and company requirements.
- Build and manage a resilient, efficient network of international vendors and partners, with a focus on those located near key customer markets.
- Collaborate closely with internal manufacturing leadership to prioritise and allocate production between in-house and external resources, optimising machining capacity and throughput.
- Work closely with engineering teams to ensure technical documentation and drawings are clear, accurate, and production-ready, minimising errors in component machining.
- Develop strategic partnerships with leading additive manufacturing providers to prepare for increased use of 3D design and production in both existing and future product lines.
- Coordinate with sales and finance teams to forecast demand, anticipate future product mix, and build supply chain capacity that supports growth while reducing lead times and costs.
- Lead company-wide inventory and materials management across all sites, maintaining accurate stock levels, minimising waste, and avoiding stockouts.
- Implement just-in-time (JIT) and vendor-managed inventory (VMI) practices to optimise stock flow and reduce obsolescence.
- Maintain a clear view of current and upcoming work orders, ensuring decisions are informed, proactive, and commercially sound.
- Continuously identify opportunities to reduce lead times and production costs, while exceeding quality and delivery expectations.

 
Candidate Profile
Experience & Knowledge:
 

- Proven experience as a manager or in a similar senior supply chain leadership position.
- Strong technical background with the ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
- In-depth knowledge of CNC machining and manufacturing processes.
- Familiarity with additive 3D manufacturing technologies (desirable).
- Demonstrated supply chain management expertise in complex, global environments.
- Experience identifying, assessing, and developing international vendors, especially those located close to the company’s customer base.

 
Skills & Competencies:
 

- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and trends to inform strategy and decision-making.
- Excellent communication skills — able to engage with board members, suppliers, internal teams, and senior stakeholders clearly and effectively.
- Strong negotiation capabilities, with a track record of securing favourable terms and building long-term supplier relationships.
- Confident leadership and stakeholder management skills, capable of motivating and aligning both internal teams and external partners toward shared objectives.

 
Why This Role
 

- Full strategic ownership of a global supply chain function with real impact and visibility.
- The chance to shape the operational foundation of a growing business at the forefront of manufacturing and engineering innovation.
- Work cross-functionally with top-tier engineering, manufacturing, sales, and finance leaders.
- Operate at the intersection of precision, innovation, and performance — with the mandate to lead real change.
- Opportunity to travel

 
Benefits
 

- £65- £85k Basic Salary -Depending on experience and skillsets
- 5% Pension
- Parking on site
- 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
- An opportunity to make your mark and be part of an exciting growth plan

If you would like to apply for this position please do so directly or get in touch for a chat alison.francis@holtengineering.co.uk