We are seeking an experienced and strategic Supply Chain Manager to oversee purchasing and supply chain operations. This role is responsible for managing the end-to-end supply chain process including procurement, inventory management, logistics, vendor relations, and compliance with aviation industry standards and regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace supply chain management, with a focus on safety, cost-effectiveness, and on-time performance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement supply chain strategies aligned with the company’s operational goals and regulatory requirements (CAA, EASA, FAA etc.).
- Oversee procurement function for all areas of the business in accordance with written procedures and statutory requirements.
- Manage supplier selection, negotiation, and performance monitoring to ensure quality, delivery, and cost-efficiency.
- Optimize inventory management practices to ensure availability of critical components while minimizing excess and obsolete stock.
- Ensure compliance with export/import regulations, hazardous materials handling, and aviation safety standards.
- Lead logistics planning, ensure correct identification and traceability of aircraft parts, including storage and release of parts to our maintenance hangars and third-party customers.
- To ensure approved procedures and documentation are complied with in the acceptance of parts and components from external suppliers (including customers and contractors)
- Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain efficiency, such as lead time, fill rate, and cost savings.
- To ensure procedures are followed for the management and control of defective components returned to suppliers under warranty and to manage SHL/OEM warranty accounts.
- To ensure procedures are in place to monitor, evaluate and implement changes to the correct Min and Max stock levels.
- Implement supply chain risk management strategies, including contingency planning for parts shortages and supply disruptions.
- Ensure shipping and freight charges are captured and passed on to customers or suppliers as appropriate.
- Import and Export control including compliance with HM Revenue and Customs legislation.
- To prioritise and react to genuine demands and order requests from both internal and external customers.
- To provide various reports relating to stock value, stock turnover, slow moving stock and supplier performance etc.
- Maintenance forecast for spares, attending planning meetings
- Short term planning and scheduling of team workload and daily allocation of tasks to direct reports.
- Monitor individual performance against given objectives.
- Carry out periodic staff appraisals with direct reports.
- Deliver team objectives to time cost and quality criteria
Qualifications:
- Experience in Supply Chain, Purchasing & Logistics,
- Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain management within the aviation or aerospace sector.
- Knowledge of aviation regulations and standards (e.g., FAA, EASA, AS9120).
- Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or AMOS.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
- Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Working Conditions:
- Office-based with visits to suppliers when required.
Training and Development:
- Identify and action the training needs of yourself and your team(s).
- Maintain your knowledge of the company’s portfolio of services and procedures.
Relationship Management:
- Build positive relationships with customers and suppliers and resolve problems.
- Work closely with all internal teams, promoting good relations and team working.
General
- At all times work in a way that demonstrates the Company’s goal of. Being open and honest, easy to do business with and in providing excellence in all our services.
- Always communicate fully any situation that may affect the ability of your team to achieve your targets.
- Maintain high standards in terms of personal appearance, conduct and respect of company property.
- You may on occasion be required to carry out duties of a different nature either in addition to, or instead of, your normal duties.
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to Andrea Peel APeel@sloanehelicopters.com