Head of Supply Chain UK
MANCHESTER, GB
ABOUT CAF
Innovation is in our DNA - we thrive on pushing boundaries and adapting to new challenges with a flexible approach. Proud to be a global leader, our fast-paced growth provides exciting opportunities for our team and the community.
Committed to maintaining trains and trams, our mission is to enhance vehicle safety and reliability. Our ultimate goal is to deliver a comfortable, dependable, and sustainable commuting experience for all passengers.
Based out of multiple locations across the UK, our 24/7 operation means we’re always on hand to deliver reliable technical support. Utilising the latest digital technology, we strive to enhance dependability, helping people to get to where they need to be!
We wouldn’t be where we are without our people. Working together as a team, we strive to achieve great things while supporting each other to thrive along the way. We’re going places, so apply today and become part of our exciting journey.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Head of Supply Chain UK will be responsible for developing and implementing the Purchasing and Supply Chain strategy in alignment with the corporate and commercial objectives.
This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills to manage supplier relationships, control costs, and oversee logistics operations.
The role will encompass the leadership of the UK Procurement and Logistics function as well as supporting those responsible for materials management across all UK projects and operating as part of a global supply chain network, centered in CAF’s Spanish Headquarters.
Your duties will include:
- Develop and Implement Strategy: Formulate and execute the Purchasing and Supply Chain strategy, objectives, and implementation plan in alignment with the corporate and commercial strategy. This will involve working closely with the CAF procurement team in Spain as well as the CAF Rail UK organisation.
- Supplier Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring the best terms and conditions for the company.
- Cost Management: Monitor and control purchasing budgets, ensuring cost-effective procurement practices.
- Logistics Oversight: Oversee logistics operations to ensure timely and efficient delivery of materials and products.
- Team Leadership: Lead and develop the Purchasing and Logistics team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
- Compliance: Ensure all purchasing and logistics activities comply with relevant regulations and standards, implementing an appropriate business governance model to ensure to obtain/maintain relevant audit certificates/accreditations.
- Performance Monitoring: Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of the supply chain and logistics operations.
ABOUT YOU
To succeed in this role, you will need:
- Relevant degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. Industry qualifications (e.g., CIPS, APICS) are highly desirable.
- Significant experience in a Senior Procurement &/or Logistics Management Role
- Experience of operating and influencing at a strategic and senior management level
- Previous experience working in an Engineering, Rail or fast paced business environment.
- Understanding of Mechanical & Electrical systems and components.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
- Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Proficiency in supply chain management software and tools.
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
LANGUAGES
Fluency in English; Spanish language skills are a plus given regular interactions with colleagues in the Spanish Headquarters
ABOUT WHAT WE OFFER
A Real Living Wage employer and proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, RSSB Mental Health Charter and Women in Rail EDI Charter, we’ve a lot to shout about at CAF.
Creating a culture of inclusivity and belonging is really important to us and we’re proud to offer our people a range of benefits to support wellbeing including 25 days annual leave, an excellent workplace pension scheme (with up to 10% contribution from us), not forgetting to mention our generous health care cash plan and Bike2Work scheme just to name a few!
Looking for career development? Our Professional Sponsorship scheme will help you to achieve your goals while our Flexible Working policy and Family Friendly culture mean everyone is supported to thrive at CAF.
As a socially responsible business, we offer paid volunteering days and promote a variety of social value initiatives, including tree-planting, company-wide donation drives, and providing support to the homeless community and refugees. We’re creating waves of positive change through delivering meaningful social value impact on and off the tracks!