Supply Chain Manager

The Opportunity\nWe’re looking for a leader who is energised by the day-to-day realities of running a complex supply chain—someone who enjoys improving operational performance and fixing issues in real time, while also having the capability to step back and implement longer-term strategic improvements. You will work closely with engineering, R&D, and manufacturing teams, ensuring that our supply chain supports both innovation and operational excellence.\n\nKey Responsibilities (Operational 70%): Lead the day-to-day performance of the supply chain supporting, ensuring continuity of supply for complex, precision-built systems. Facilitate immediate frontline support and work with the operations team to provide solutions to urgent material requirements. Drive improvements in OTIF performance across suppliers and internal operations. Actively manage and improve supplier performance (quality, cost, delivery). Implement and lead structured supplier reviews (QBRs / performance reviews). Work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to resolve component-level issues. Lead the Supply Chain element of the Engineering Change Process, ensuring a well-managed and low impact implementation into Operations. Strengthen processes for quality, returns, and MRB, particularly where components affect instrument accuracy and reliability. Ensure effective MRP alignment and execution, translating demand into reliable and timely supply. Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, particularly within niche or technically specialised supplier markets.\n\nStrategic (30%)\nWork with the Operations team and Group strategic Sourcing to set and implement a procurement strategy and ensure the procurement team is aligned to meet departmental goals and objectives. Provide leadership, guidance and ensure the continued development of staff and other team members. Be accountable for the development of the key metrics and service level initiatives to improve customer satisfaction. Understand opportunities to simplify the supply chain whilst driving PPV by identifying and improving existing, and new potential value streams. Identify, manage & mitigate supply chain risks to the business.\nWhat We\u2019re Looking For:\nExperience in procurement or supply chain within engineering, advanced manufacturing, or scientific instrumentation. A track record of hands-on operational improvements, not just strategy definition. Strong background in supplier performance management (cost, quality, delivery). Confidence working with engineers and technical stakeholders on product and component challenges. Experience managing low-volume, high-complexity supply chains. A continuous improvement mindset, focused on real, measurable outcomes.\nWhy Join Oxford Instruments Materials Analysis?\nYou\u2019ll be part of an organisation at the forefront of materials science and analytical technology, where your work directly supports innovation and scientific advancement worldwide.\nWellbeing\n25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase up to 12 additional weeks; Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support including counselling, financial guidance, and legal advice); Private health insurance, dental insurance, and life assurance.\nMoney & Lifestyle\nMyDiscounts platform savings with leading retailers; Car salary exchange scheme (electric or hybrid vehicles); TechScheme & CycleScheme spread the cost of tech, home goods, or bikes; Company pension plan with AVIVA; Share Incentive Plan invest in and benefit from company success; Development\nSupport for professional and academic qualifications; Defined career pathways and regular development reviews.\nIf you\u2019d like to learn more before applying, please reach out to abby.gelder@oxinst.com Successfully shortlisted candidates will be invited to a Teams call to learn more about the opportunity.