Sourcing Manager jobs
For any given raw material or component that is supplied to a company for their manufacturing process, there could well be dozens of potential suppliers. Their variations will be in more than price, however. For example, some will have better delivery terms; others might be able deliver small batches with no surcharge or large batches at short notice; others again might be able to perform a task that the manufacturer would normally do, relieving their workload. So choosing the supplier will be a balancing act between many factors.
The sourcing manager will be in charge of reviewing the offers of the potential suppliers and deciding which one, or which ones, offer the best deal when all factors are considered. They might then be involved with drawing up a supply contract in order to make sure both parties are certain as to what agreements have been reached.
As most manufactured goods will have several suppliers, the sourcing manager will need to balance them in order to work out the best deal. One supplier might be able to provide two materials and reduce transportation costs even though the material costs are higher, and there could be dozens of possible permutations over a complex process. Ultimately, the sourcing manager will be judged on his or her ability to drive down costs, and this will be done through diligent searching, best possible publicity of open tenders and excellent negotiating skills.
The skills required
With the benefits of one supplier over another not necessarily being down to simply costs, the sourcing manager will need a thorough and analytical mindset to be able to cope with the complexity of the procurement balancing act. He or she should also be able to identify potential hidden costs and ensure that they are dealt with at the negotiation and contracting stage.
Experience of procurement will be a distinct advantage, particularly procurement within the same sector as that in which the position has become available. Sourcing can be of anything from sand to silicon chips, so it is unlikely that expertise in one would be much use in the other.
The sourcing manager could well be in charge of a department, possibly split into categories or geographical regions, so she or he will need excellent people management and communication skills if the corporate aims are to be met.
Sourcing Manager Jobs in Norwich
A city with a long and varied history, Norwich is the county town of Norfolk and from the 11th century until the Industrial Revolution, it was the second largest city in England after London.
During this period, Norwich was a market town known for its wool and textiles; it also traded pottery. There was a large cattle market during the 1700s and brewing became big business, peaking at the beginning of the 19th century. A number of microbreweries and artisan beer makers are still based in the region.
One of Norwich's best-known products is Colman's mustard, which has been made in the city since 1804 when Jeremiah Colman bought a flour mill in the area. He began producing mustard in 1814 and the company is still thriving in Norwich today - although it's now operated by Unilever and the range of products has expanded to include a variety of sauces and condiments.
Those seeking Sourcing Manager roles in Norwich will have a number of employment opportunities to consider. Aviva, an insurance company formerly known as Norwich Union, is a major employer, while Archant - a national publishing - company distributes a number of daily and weekly newspapers, as well as a variety of magazines.
In addition, Norwich is home to a massive research park that includes the facilities of more than 30 businesses based in biotechnology, food, nutrition, pharmaceuticals, medical technology, information science, computing and low-carbon energy.
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Cast UK’s procurement opportunities
Cast UK was founded by logistics, procurement and supply chain specialists, and our consultants are all from these backgrounds too, so we have in-depth knowledge of what employers and candidates are looking for. Employers come to us to find candidates because they’re confident that we’ll help them find the most appropriate managers and executives.
Cast UK have jobs all over the UK, so we are well placed to find you work in logistics, procurement or supply chain wherever you are located or plan to locate. If you’re moving house, please see if there are any positions available in the area you’re moving to; and if you’re simply looking for more fulfilment in your working life, there could be an employer looking for the skills you have.
When we have your details, we’ll be able to start matching you with positions as soon as they arise, so do get in touch if you’re looking for a job in procurement.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit a Sourcing Manager for your business or find you a job as a Sourcing Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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