Head of Supply Chain

About the Company

Our client is an innovative advanced battery technology company developing next-generation lithium-ion cells for high-performance applications where energy density, power output, and weight are critical. The business designs proprietary cell technology and manufactures through a network of global production partners.

The Role

We are seeking a Head of Supply Chain to lead and scale a global supply chain organization responsible for raw material sourcing, contract manufacturing management, supplier strategy, and cost optimization. Reporting into the Operations leadership team, this individual will play a key role in supporting commercial growth, new product introductions, and supply continuity across a rapidly expanding manufacturing footprint.

Key Responsibilities

Supply Strategy & Supplier Management

• Own sourcing strategy for critical direct materials and components.
• Develop supplier roadmaps aligned to engineering requirements and forecasted demand.
• Lead competitive sourcing activities, supplier negotiations, and long-term commercial agreements.
• Establish dual-sourcing and business continuity strategies for key materials.
• Ensure supply chain compliance with customer, regulatory, and government program requirements.

Contract Manufacturing

• Manage global contract manufacturing partners, including performance, capacity planning, and commercial negotiations.
• Identify and qualify new manufacturing partners to support growth and geographic diversification.
• Support technology transfer and production ramp-up of new products.
• Build long-range capacity plans aligned with business forecasts.

Cost & Commercial Performance

• Own landed cost strategy across materials, manufacturing, logistics, tariffs, and duties.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives with suppliers and manufacturing partners.
• Partner with Finance and Legal on tariff, trade compliance, and risk mitigation strategies.

Team Leadership

• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain organization.
• Implement supplier performance management and governance processes.
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Product teams to support scalable growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business, or a related discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in supply chain, procurement, or sourcing within a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years leading teams and developing supply chain organizations.
• Strong experience managing contract manufacturers through qualification, scale-up, and volume production.
• Proven track record negotiating complex supply and manufacturing agreements.
• Deep understanding of cost modelling, landed cost analysis, tariffs, and trade impacts.
• Experience managing international supplier networks, particularly across Asia.
• Willingness to travel internationally as required.

Preferred Experience

• Battery, energy storage, advanced materials, electronics, aerospace, defence, or other complex manufacturing sectors.
• Experience supporting government-regulated or compliance-driven supply chains.
• Previous experience building or transforming a supply chain function in a high-growth environment.
• MBA and/or relevant supply chain certifications preferred.

Why Join?

• Opportunity to shape the supply chain strategy of a rapidly scaling advanced technology manufacturer.
• High visibility role with direct impact on growth, cost, and operational performance.
• Leadership position with scope to build and develop a global team.
• Exposure to cutting-edge products and emerging technologies serving mission-critical markets.