Head of Supply Chain jobs
The supply chain can be an extremely complex part of a company, involving everything from procurement, and manufacturing through to warehousing, logistics and distribution.
No matter what industry a company may be operating in, the head of supply chain is a key position that can play a big part in the overall success and profitability of the enterprise.
After all, they will likely be responsible for project planning, creating strategies and implementing policies to ensure that budgets are met, schedules are adhered to and products are delivered according to agreed quality standards.
Monitoring the market and analysing trends will be a big part of the role, as will making forecasts and taking steps to ensure the supply chain is properly prepared for any peaks or troughs in demand.
What’s more, the head of supply chain will also be tasked with identifying, driving and delivering consistent improvement within the company’s supply chain. This could mean finding time efficiencies, renegotiating contracts or selecting new suppliers.
The skills required
The head of supply chain is a senior role in any organisation, and as such candidates should have a proven track record in managing a team.
Communication skills are a must and you should be able to train, motivate and encourage a team to do the best work possible for the organisation.
An ability to build relationships, carry out negotiations and deal with problems is vital, while a strong customer focus, a credible and trustworthy demeanour and an ability to be proactive and decisive are desirable.
Head of Supply Chain Jobs in Northern Ireland
The smallest country in the UK, Northern Ireland has traditionally been associated with industries like shipping, rope making and textile manufacture. In fact, during the American Civil War, the supply of cotton from the States was cut and Belfast gained the nickname Linenopolis, as Irish linen helped to alleviate problems caused by the shortage.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Belfast was home to many of the world's top shipbuilders, including Harland and Wolff, the firm that went on to build the RMS Titanic, her sisters the Britannic and Olympic and other vessels like the HMS Belfast during the early 20th century.
Northern Ireland has also seen its share of violence and civil unrest, during a period known as the Troubles, which lasted from the late 1960s until the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
Since then, the country has grown more stable and a number of redevelopment projects have helped to turn Northern Ireland into a thriving place with an economy based mainly in the service sector - although many of the older business are still in operation. What's more, there are plenty of opportunities for those seeking Head of Supply Chain vacancies.
Just some of the companies with regional headquarters or other facilities in the region include DuPont and Caterpillar. In addition, Short Brothers, one of the first companies in the world to produce aircraft, moved to Northern Ireland in 1948 - today it owned by Bombardier Aerospace and produces flight control systems and other components.
Popular locations
Find Head of Supply Chain positions with Cast UK
Here at Cast UK, we work hard to find the best talent for every vacancy. Our team of qualified recruitment consultants have worked in these types of jobs themselves, giving them an excellent understanding of what drives the industry and what makes the ideal candidate for each role.
So if you're ready to take your next step on the career ladder, look no further than Cast UK. To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Head of Supply Chain for your business or find you a job as a Head of Supply Chain then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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