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 Widnes
At the north-eastern edge of Cheshire lies Widnes, a town of around 60,000 population built on heavy industry, particularly chemicals, where ICI had a huge presence for decades before fragmenting in the 1990s. The chemical industry chose Widnes partly for the plentiful supply of water, just like Runcorn, to which it is joined by a railway and road bridge over the Mersey.
The centre of Liverpool is 11 miles (17 km) to the west, with Liverpool John Lennon Airport just 4 miles (7km) form the centre of Widnes. Although not actually in Widnes, the Jaguar Land rover car production plant is just outside the town in Halewood, and it has been a large employer of people from Widnes. For decades the plant was owned by Ford, and the locals still cal the main boulevard that passes it “The Ford Road”. Under the new management, the factory is doing extremely well, helped by a local enthusiastic workforce.
Widnes has two musical claims to fame, one certain, one apocryphal. First was the Stone Roses’ Spike Island gig, the pinnacle of the Madchester scene in 1990. The second claim is that Paul Simon wrote “Homeward Bound” at Widnes Station, although Simon isn’t 100% sure himself!
Widnes has retained many of its industrial plants, although they are no longer owned by the giant ICI, and have been taken over by a multitude of companies. The well-connected town is handy for Liverpool, Warrington, St Helens and Runcorn, and has the M62 at its northern point. All this makes it a good place to locate any logistics operations, and indeed, Head of Supply Chain jobs or similar positions have been through our system in Widnes.
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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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