Job Description
The Role
We are seeking a senior supply chain leader to head up end-to-end supply and demand operations within a UK-based global pharmaceutical manufacturing organisation. Reporting into the Manufacturing Leadership Team, this role leads a multidisciplinary function covering supply chain management, logistics, warehousing, demand planning and core enterprise systems including SAP and serialisation. The Director plays a critical role in ensuring reliable, compliant supply of medicines to global markets, shaping supply strategy, sponsoring major transformation projects and aligning manufacturing capability with commercial demand across multiple regions.
The Company
This role sits within a long-established, research-led pharmaceutical company with a strong global footprint and a clear patient-first philosophy. The organisation is values-driven, quality-focused, and committed to long-term investment in people, innovation and sustainable operations. Collaboration, integrity, and inclusive leadership are central to how the business operates, with a strong emphasis on delivering meaningful outcomes for patients and society.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and develop teams across supply chain management, logistics, warehouse operations, demand planning and supply chain systems
* Own and drive demand planning and capacity-constrained production planning to meet global market requirements
* Define and execute supply strategies that balance service, cost, risk, and compliance across international markets
* Act as senior sponsor for supply chain-related transformation initiatives, including SAP, planning tools and serialisation
* Provide strategic oversight of key suppliers, logistics partners and contract manufacturing organisations
* Ensure all supply chain and warehouse activities comply with GMP, GDP and relevant regulatory standards
* Establish and track supply chain KPIs to drive operational excellence, service reliability and cost optimisation
* Manage supply risks including geopolitical disruption, tariffs, sanctions and supply continuity challenges
* Partner closely with commercial, quality, finance, IT and global stakeholders to align manufacturing and market needs
* Own supply chain budgets, headcount planning, cost of goods and continuous improvement initiatives
Requirements
* Significant senior-level supply chain leadership experience within pharmaceuticals or life sciences
* Proven expertise across demand planning, logistics, warehousing, global supply networks and ERP systems (SAP)
* Strong understanding of GMP/GDP, global trade regulations, INCOTERMS and intercompany supply models
* Experience managing complex supplier and CMO relationships at a strategic level
* Demonstrated ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams and drive change in complex environments
* Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior and executive level
* Track record of delivering operational excellence, cost optimisation and service improvements
* Degree-qualified in supply chain, engineering, business or a related discipline