The Supply Chain Manager is responsible for planning, developing, and executing end-to-end supply chain strategies to support the manufacture and delivery of aerospace products. This role ensures continuity of supply, cost competitiveness, regulatory compliance, and high-quality standards across a global supplier network. The successful candidate will lead supplier performance, manage risk in long and complex supply chains, and collaborate cross-functionally to meet program, customer, and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Supply Chain Strategy & Planning
Develop and implement supply chain strategies aligned with business, program, and customer requirements.
Manage demand planning, capacity planning, and material forecasting for complex, long-lead aerospace components.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, resilience, and scalability of the supply chain.
Support new product introduction (NPI), ramp-ups, and lifecycle management of aerospace programs.
Supplier Management & Procurement
Lead supplier selection, qualification, and onboarding in accordance with AS9100 and company standards.
Establish and manage strategic supplier relationships, including contract negotiation, performance reviews, and risk mitigation plans.
Monitor supplier delivery, quality, cost, and compliance performance using KPIs and scorecards.
Collaborate with suppliers to address capacity constraints, quality escapes, and supply disruptions.
Quality, Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure full compliance with aerospace regulations and standards, including AS9100, FAA/EASA requirements, ITAR, FAR/DFARS, and export controls.
Work closely with Quality and Engineering teams to resolve non-conformances, corrective actions, and audit findings.
Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including single-source dependencies, geopolitical exposure, and obsolescence.
Support internal, customer, and regulatory audits as required.
Operations & Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Program Management, and Finance to align supply chain activities with production schedules and program milestones.
Manage inventory levels to balance cost, availability, and production continuity.
Oversee logistics, warehousing, and transportation strategies to ensure on-time delivery to internal and external customers.
Leadership & Team Management
Lead, coach, and develop supply chain and procurement professionals.
Set clear objectives, performance metrics, and development plans for the team.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or a related field.
Master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., APICS CSCP/CPIM, CIPS) preferred.
Experience
7-10+ years of progressive supply chain or procurement experience, preferably within aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
Proven experience managing complex, global supply chains with long lead times and high-quality requirements.
Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, performance management, and risk mitigation.
Skills & Competencies
Strong knowledge of aerospace supply chain requirements, including quality systems and regulatory compliance.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Advanced negotiation and contract management capabilities.
Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and supply chain planning tools.
Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
On-time delivery and schedule adherence
Supplier quality and defect rates
Inventory turns and working capital optimization
Cost reduction and value improvement initiatives
Supply chain risk reduction and continuity of supplyAt Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
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