An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Commodity Manager - Direct Materials to join a leading aerospace manufacturing organisation. This role focuses on developing and executing sourcing strategies, managing a critical supplier base, and ensuring a secure, cost‑effective, and high‑quality supply of direct materials that support production.
This position sits within a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment, requiring strong commercial acumen, supplier management capability, and the ability to mitigate risk across the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
Develop and deliver sourcing strategies for direct material categories.
Manage, evaluate and continuously improve supplier performance against cost, delivery, and quality KPIs.
Conduct supplier audits, performance reviews, and corrective action plans.
Lead supplier relationship management to secure long‑term value and drive continuous improvement.
Contract & Commercial Management
Lead commercial negotiations to secure favourable contract terms.
Analyse cost structures and identify opportunities for cost savings and value engineering.
Oversee contract lifecycle management, ensuring compliance with agreed terms.
Operational Procurement Support
Collaborate closely with Production, Planning, Engineering, and Quality to understand material requirements.
Support NPI activities by identifying suitable suppliers and securing required capacity.
Quickly resolve supply issues to prevent production disruption.
Market & Data Analysis
Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends, and supply risks.
Conduct benchmarking studies and evaluate competitive alternatives.
Use data-driven insight to inform strategy, identify savings, and drive improvement initiatives.
Cross-functional Collaboration
Partner with internal stakeholders across engineering, operations, finance, and quality.
Contribute to budget planning, cost forecasting, and strategic procurement initiatives.
Support sustainability and compliance objectives across the supplier network.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
Strong experience in supplier evaluation, supplier development, and performance management.
Proven success negotiating long-term supplier agreements and delivering cost optimisation.
Background in purchasing or strategic sourcing within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and market trends.
Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC).
Must have lived in the UK continuously for the last 5 years (due to clearance requirements).
Desirable:
Experience within aerospace, automotive, defence, or complex engineering sectors.
Knowledge of direct material categories such as machined components, metals, castings, or electronics.
Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
CIPS qualification (or working towards).
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