Head of Materials jobs
In the manufacturing industry, keeping production on schedule is essential for business stability. This relies on having adequate stocks of components and raw materials.
Whether a company makes computers or children’s toys, food, beverages, pharmaceuticals or something else, the head of materials is responsible for ensuring that the stock levels are maintained and that products are sourced within budget and to the required quality standards.
Depending on the particulars of the role and the nature of the company, the head of materials will be charged with ordering supplies, tracking shipments, liaising with other departments to keep up with market trends and to continuously look for ways to drive efficiencies without compromising on customer satisfaction.
The role may also involve maintaining hygiene levels in storage areas - this is especially true of the food and beverage industry - as well as renegotiating contracts, researching new suppliers and reporting on key performance indicators.
The skills required
Those applying for a role as head of materials should be able to demonstrate good managerial skills and be confident in your ability to communicate with staff, stakeholders and customers.
Successful candidates should have good commercial awareness and always be on the lookout for ways to make improvements.
In addition, as head of materials you will need to have a degree of IT literacy and knowledge of the various computer programs and systems used in the industry. For instance, an ability to use spreadsheets and databases is a must, while familiarity with the Microsoft Office package can also be a useful skill.
Head of Materials Jobs in Orkney
The Orkney Islands are a group of islands just off the north-east coast of Scotland; politically, Orkney is the name of the local council region. There are about 70 sizeable islands in the group, 20 of which are inhabited. The southernmost point is just 6 miles (10 km) from the north-eastern tip of Scotland, and there are several ferry routes between northern Scotland and the islands. Between the islands is a comprehensive ferry network, and ferries also travel between the capital Kirkwall and Aberdeen.
Kirkwall is also the most populous settlement on the island, with around 9000 inhabitants, followed by Stromness with 2000. The islands as a whole have a population of around 20,000. The road and ferry network is well maintained and the islands naturally have a well organised supply chain to keep the populace fed and watered and to sell their produce. This could mean that Head of Materials jobs or similar posts could appear more regularly than you might think, so there could certainly be profit in seeking such work here before trying the mainland.
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Find Head of Materials opportunities with Cast UK
As an expert in the logistics, procurement and supply chain sector, Cast UK is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a new role as a head of materials.
Our team of consultants have extensive experience in recruiting for these sectors, having worked in similar roles themselves.
What’s more, we work with clients and candidates in locations across the country to match the best talent to every role. To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Head of Materials for your business or find you a job as a Head of Materials then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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