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 Southend-on-Sea
Few towns have names that describe them as perfectly as Southend-on-Sea. The south-facing seaside town is located just over 30 miles (50 km) from the centre of London, where the Thames Estuary meets the North Sea. As towns go, it has relatively large population, well over 100,000, and as well as being a seaside resort, it is home to one of the six airports serving London, the other five being Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and City. As well as the airport, the town is also served by two railway lines and excellent road infrastructure, and the town thrives throughout the year with shopping, entertainment and sport going on.
Southend is traditionally a destination for people from South England, but especially London, to go for a holiday, short break or day out by the sea, and at the height of summer the streets, esplanade and beach are full of fun-seekers.
Because of the large static population and the diversity of the economy, Head of Materials jobs quite often come up in Southend-on-Sea. The town has a large town centre and there are trading estates dotted around, with many of the big-name retail brands having a presence here.
Popular locations
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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