Head of Procurement

Isotropic Systems ,
Reading, Berkshire

Overview

Job Description

As part of its progression into the next phase of the company's strategic growth plan, Isotropic Systems is seeking an industry expert to design, build and manage it's strategic procurement and contract manufacturing capability. Reporting into the Supply Chain Director and working closely with the Product Engineering and NPI Engineering teams, the Head of Procurement is responsible for ensuring the product vision is realized through the establishment of optimised strategic procurement processes that translate engineering designs into manufactured products through a reliable contract manufacturing base that meets it's performance and cost metrics. This pivotal role requires proven industrial experience in developing and executing against a coordinated strategy with suppliers and contract manufacturing partners. As the main interface between the internal needs of the Company and the external manufacturing base, taking account of the product metrics relating to Quality and Cost, you will select, assess and manage all suppliers, procuring suitable failsafe options and guaranteeing a steady supply. The Head of Procurement will have experience of developing CEMs both locally (in the UK) and offshore in Eastern Europe and/or Asia. With a remit that covers pilot production through to full production builds in a volume-production facility, they will be expected to identify, engage, negotiate with and select appropriate 3rd party suppliers, partners and contractors to fulfil a wide range of manufacturing services applicable to both medium volume, high value products at the in-country / in-Europe level to high volume, sustainable high quality and low cost units in off-shore locations around the world. Responsibilities * Identify potential component suppliers, sub-assembly vendors and contract manufacturing partners. * Undertake thorough due diligence and negotiations with potential partner companies in order to down select to the right option. * Manage the security of supply through the identification of alternative sources. * Manage disputes with suppliers as necessary before escalating when appropriate. * Establish KPIs to track and monitor supplier and process performance. * Working with NPI, deliver continuous improvements to product metrics through optimisation of the supply base and your CEMs over time. * Contribute towards the development of a team to manage the procurement process including CEM management, quality and strategic sourcing. Requirements * Experience in establishing and managing an efficient, high quality and cost-effective contract manufacturing base * 5+ years of experience in manufacturing electronics and electro-mechanical based products for Enterprise and Consumer markets, preferably in the Satellite Ground Equipment sector * Extensive experience identifying and interfacing with 3rd party suppliers and contract manufacturers, both local and offshore. Proven ability to identify their strengths and weaknesses against capabilities and volume scenarios. * Experience in the supply of electronics components, PCBAs, mouldings, castings, vacuum forming, metalised plastics and motorised assemblies. * Experience operating in offshore locations. * Technically proficient in MS Office products * Excellent communication skills - written and verbal. Fluency in written and spoken English * Ability to travel on request, sometimes for extended periods. Desired * Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities * Strong interpersonal skills. Able to communicate effectively at all levels of the organisation and with customers and suppliers. * Ability to effectively present information in team meetings and design reviews as needed. * Experience of LEAN or Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvements. Benefits Isotropic Systems is a pre-revenue start-up, working on cutting edge technology in the satellite communications industry. There's a lot of hard work (and sometimes long hours) involved to get the job done. You'll do really well here if you have a great work ethic, are passionate about delivering innovation and want to be part of something truly groundbreaking. We offer a highly competitive compensation package (salary, bonus and equity) and a culture that recognises and rewards your contributions. We operate out of serviced offices in Central Reading (less than a 5 minute walk from the station) and are growing fast, doubling our headcount in the last 3 months with more to come. We are passionate, respectful, creative, bold and have high integrity. We are Isotropic! Isotropic embraces diversity and inclusion! We celebrate it, we actively seek it out, and we thrive on it for the benefit of our employees, our product and our community. Isotropic is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Please note that Isotropic Systems Limited operates a strict PSL and to be fair to our suppliers we do not operate outside of this. We do not accept speculative CV's from agencies and they will not constitute an