Facilities, Manufacturing & MRO Commodity Manager.

Facilities, Manufacturing & MRO Commodity Manager

Copello are working with a leading organisation within the defence and aerospace sector, supporting the delivery of complex, high-impact programmes across multiple domains including land, sea, air, space and cyber. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking business where innovation, collaboration and professional development are at the forefront.

Summary of Role

Copello are seeking an experienced Supply Chain professional to join a dynamic and growing Commodity Management team. This role offers the opportunity to operate within a fast-paced, collaborative environment, supporting expanding manufacturing operations.

You will work closely with both external suppliers and internal stakeholders to develop sourcing strategies, build robust business cases, and lead supplier selection, negotiation, and contract management activities. The role will also involve driving supplier performance, resolving disputes, and contributing to broader business and functional strategies through effective commodity management.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders across the business

• Lead or support Make vs Buy analyses and develop commodity strategies of moderate complexity

• Define and implement strategies covering:

  • Indirect spend categories

  • Target return on investment (ROI)

  • Risk management

  • Service level requirements

  • Approved and preferred supplier frameworks

• Engage with stakeholders to define supplier selection and bid criteria

• Lead or support supplier assessments and development activities, including due diligence

• Identify and leverage opportunities for efficiencies and synergies across the supply chain

• Ensure sourcing strategies align with market conditions and organisational objectives

• Develop and manage tender processes, including cost analysis and negotiation strategy

• Lead negotiations to deliver best value outcomes for goods and services

• Prepare business cases and briefing materials for senior management

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, driving continuous improvement and performance against KPIs

• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, regulatory frameworks, and internal policies

• Promote the strategic value of the procurement function across the organisation

• Support sustainable and responsible procurement practices, including social value considerations

• Apply project management methodologies when managing supplier activities

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks while driving improvement opportunities

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

• Proven experience within Supply Chain, Procurement, Subcontract Management, Commodity Management, or a related field

• Degree qualified and/or MCIPS (or equivalent)

• Experience managing diverse stakeholder groups

• Experience managing capital equipment procurement

• Knowledge of facilities management and complex building projects

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present at mid-management level

• Experience in contract negotiation and management, including complex and non-standard agreements

• Familiarity with JCT contracts (desirable but advantageous)

• Understanding of import/export regulations and logistics requirements

• Experience with MRP systems, SAP, and purchase order processes

• Demonstrated ability in problem solving, dispute resolution, and continuous improvement

• Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams

Desirable:

• Programme or project management experience

• Experience developing operational plans aligned to functional strategy

• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) experience

• Process improvement expertise

• Experience working with international suppliers or programmes

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package

• Generous holiday allowance with the option to buy/sell additional leave

• Pension scheme with strong employer contribution

• Discretionary bonus scheme

• Life assurance

• Flexible benefits package including health, dental, and lifestyle options

• Enhanced family-friendly policies

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements, depending on role requirements

• Supportive and outcome-focused working culture

• Volunteering opportunities