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 Sheffield
Situated in South Yorkshire , Sheffield was a prominent player in the steel industry for hundreds of years. This began with the manufacture of cutlery in the 1500s and grew with the discovery of crucible steel in the 1740s.
Further innovations included Sheffield plating and the creation of stainless steel, an important development in the industrial revolution that led to a significant increase in the city's population. By the 19th century, the city had become pivotal in the steel industry.
Ironwork and coal mining were also big business in the region, while the outlying areas produced limestone - including the stone used to build the Palace of Westminster.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Sheffield suffered economically as the coal industry collapsed and the iron and steel industries struggled with international competition. Over the last ten years, however, the city has experienced a rebirth and it is now a fashionable destination known for its shopping and green spaces.
Today, the only remaining steelworks is Forgemasters. The city's economy has moved on and for those seeking Head of Materials vacancies in Sheffield, the major industries now include telecommunications, manufacturing and construction. Some of the top employers include BT, Land Instruments International, Barclays and Swann Morton.
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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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