Supply Chain Manager

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Ipswich, Suffolk
• Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 + bonus

A growing manufacturing business is seeking a Supply Chain Manager to lead a small team while staying hands-on across inventory, production planning and supply chain operations. This Supply Chain Manager position offers the chance to work closely with Production, Engineering, Finance, Service and Commercial teams to ensure materials, stock levels and production schedules are aligned with customer demand. It is an excellent opportunity for a capable planning and inventory professional who enjoys combining leadership with operational delivery.

Day-to-day of the role

• Lead production planning and material scheduling to ensure customer demand is fulfilled efficiently.
• Manage inventory levels to support manufacturing operations, customer requirements and wider business goals.
• Oversee the scheduling and release of work orders through the ERP system.
• Drive replenishment activity using MRP, Kanban and Min/Max methodologies.
• Lead annual stock counts and cycle count programmes in partnership with Finance.
• Monitor and manage supplier performance to maintain continuity of supply and service standards.
• Work with Sales, Manufacturing, Warehouse and Engineering teams to communicate risks, priorities and opportunities.
• Support new product introduction activities, including supplier selection and material sourcing.
• Identify and deliver continuous improvement initiatives across planning, inventory and supply chain processes.
• Maintain accurate material and part data within the ERP system while supporting cost reduction activity and supplier negotiations.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in inventory management, production planning and scheduling.
• Experience handling high volumes of components, parts or complex bills of materials.
• Strong ERP/MRP systems knowledge and practical experience.
• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyse and manipulate data effectively.
• Previous leadership, supervisory or team management experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making ability in a fast-paced setting.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Proactive approach and a genuine passion for continuous improvement.
• Desirable: knowledge of end-to-end supply chain processes, purchasing or direct materials, Lean methodologies, SQL or database reporting, and a CIPS, STEM or equivalent professional qualification.

Benefits

• Performance-related bonus
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private healthcare
• Pension scheme
• Opportunity to shape supply chain strategy
• Genuine career development opportunities
• Chance to join a growing manufacturing environment with visible impact

How to apply

To apply for this Supply Chain Manager role, please hit apply or contact at Reed Ipswich