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What is the job?
This pivotal role is both strategic and tactical, driving the optimisation of material flow across the entire supply chain for a complex electro-mechanical manufacturing operation. As the leader of the Purchasing, Planning, and Supplier Quality Engineering teams, the Strategic Supply Chain Manager ensures seamless supply, demand management, quality control, and on-time delivery within the Motion Control Business Unit.
Working Hours:
Monday to Friday 8.00am - 4.30pm
Who we are?
Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We design and manufacture a range of innovative photonics products used in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. With 22 facilities worldwide in 9 countries, our Ely site is responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line.
Where you will be working?
Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, in Ely. Accessible via train and bus links from London, near Ely train and bus stations.
Requirements
What is essential to us...
* Degree qualified (or equivalent) in relevant field
* MCIPS or other recognised supply chain management qualification
* Previous supply chain management experience, preferably in electronics or similar scientific manufacturing industry
* Experience in Supplier quality development and working with suppliers to meet quality standards
* Negotiation skills to secure favourable terms and resolve conflicts
* Strategic data analysis skills to draw actionable insights
* Commercial mindset focused on financial impact
* Strong knowledge of PPAP & FMEA
* Experience in APQP is beneficial
* Understanding of Lean principles and coaching suppliers in their implementation (e.g., SMED, PFEP, EPEI, pull)
* Strong organisation and project management skills
* Problem-solving skills
* Proficiency in ERP software (e.g., Microsoft D365) and MS Office
Key Responsibilities - Functional (80%)
* Design and implement supply chain strategies connecting Purchasing, Planning, and SQE teams
* Lead SQE efforts to embed best practices, eliminate waste, reduce defects, and ensure on-time delivery
* Negotiate contracts, monitor supplier performance, develop vendor base for new products and technologies
* Assess and mitigate supply chain risks, especially for key product lines and OEM customers
* Use ERP capacity planning, apply PDCA for root cause analysis and corrective actions
* Manage stock during obsolescence projects, minimise write-offs
* Audit standard work procedures, apply problem-solving tools (5 Whys, Ishikawa)
* Create dashboards for decision support
Leadership (up to 20%)
* Ensure safety and compliance with PPE and safe systems
* Support continuous improvement initiatives
* Motivate team, conduct appraisals and 1-to-1s
* Communicate goals, assist with hiring and training
* Develop strategies for regulation adherence
* Conduct return-to-work interviews, manage disciplinary actions
* Oversee health & safety, risk assessments, and fire safety procedures
What will you get?
Opportunities for in-house training, free parking, refreshments, and an entertainment area in the canteen.
And the benefits are?
Competitive salary, pension, healthcare, 25 days holiday plus public holidays.
Job Reference: THOR-VC-1222
This is a rolling campaign; early applications are encouraged. We welcome applicants over 18. Internal candidates should inform their managers.
Benefits
* Contributed Pension, Group Life Cover, Private Healthcare, Income Protection, and more
Apply via the button or send your CV, cover letter, and salary expectations to: Human Resources, Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX, or email recruitment@thorlabs.com.
Applicants must have valid UK work permission, with documentation required during recruitment.
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Management and Manufacturing
Industries
* IT Services and IT Consulting
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