Job Description

Supply Chain and Logistics Manager

FULL JOB DESCRIPTION

We are looking to recruit an experienced individual who will lead the department, within our door & joinery divisions, to optimise the overall purchasing performance for our business; responsible for planning and managing the flow of materials from the point of ordering until product delivery. They will lead and manage a small team and will oversee buying the best quality materials, at the most competitive prices, to enable the business to operate profitably within an appropriate risk management and sustainability framework. They will manage our production operations schedule, along with the workshop & sales teams, to ensure capacity is monitored & lead times achieved.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Possess an excellent market understanding and an awareness of any relevant changes, such as Product H&S changes, price changes, and new product launches. Monitor the performance of suppliers and products to ensure standards are met based on time, delivery, quality, quantity, and cost of suppliers. Developing, leading and executing purchasing strategies. Sourcing, coordinating and scheduling the receipt of raw materials in alignment with production schedules and customer requirements; Source products competitively from suppliers and alternative sourcing opportunities throughout the UK, with consideration to cost, availability, and continuity of supplies. Negotiating purchase prices, contracts and supply agreements. Sourcing of new materials, packaging and suppliers. Monitoring of shortages and procurement of stock to meet market demands. Develop and maintain excellent rapport with suppliers through regular contact. Maintain the integrity of supplier information (including their products) within the Company's database systems. Monitor purchase orders to ensure these are modified as required to meet changes (e.g. in specifications and goods are delivered at the correct time and at the best prices). Maintain records of current outstanding orders as well as deliveries partially fulfilled, to give a constant overview of the unfulfilled purchase orders' position of the business. Manage and maintain up-to-date supplier lists and pricing arrangements to ensure the best commercial terms. Working closely with other departments to ensure the seamless introduction of new products as necessary. Monitoring and managing suppliers, taking action as required to maximise supplier quality, cost effectiveness and service delivery. Managing the Purchasing function, raising purchase orders as required. Ensuring materials are sourced in full and aligned to production schedules and customer requirements. Managing inventory risk and ensuring contingency plans are in place. Measuring and reporting on achievement against the production schedule Analysing production capacity alongside relevant teams against requirements and sales forecasts, highlighting any potential issues and suggesting solutions. Taking part in weekly/daily meetings to keep track of production schedules, notifying sales of any potential delays or issues with customer orders. Preparing reports for senior management meetings Taking overall responsibility for the obsolete stock process, ensuring minimum liability and minimum waste. Be actively involved in developing the company strategy with business development activities including introduction of an ERP system in all areas of the Supply Chain, ensuring data integrity and accuracy of reporting. Forecasting future demand in order to ensure availability of supplies at all times. Inputting and processing orders. Liaising between suppliers, manufacturers, relevant internal departments and customers. Conducting industry and market research to forecast price trends and their impact on future business activities. Conduct research on new products and licenses (prices, availability, and usage). Maintaining a constant check on stock levels ensuring adequacy to meet / anticipate business demands. Develop strategies to make sure that cost savings and supplier performance targets are met

LEVEL OF QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

Essential:

At least 3 years supply chain experience at a similar level gained with a manufacturing or construction environment. Production planning & scheduling experience Strong IT skills; Competent in the use of all Microsoft packages inc SharePoint, Excel. Sage Accounts packages
Desirable:

Experience dealing with similar inventory. Working knowledge of SAP software. Previous experience in the use of ERP systems. Knowledge and experience of the Fire door market.

PERSONNEL SPECIFICATION

Good written and verbal communication skills (English). Analytical thinker with problem solving ability and excellent attention to detail & an aptitude for figures, finance, budgets and numeracy Good time management and organisational skills with an ability to prioritise workload. Strong commercial awareness and negotiation skills. Ability to work well and calmly under pressure. Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to build and maintain relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. Ability to work well within a team as well as on own initiative. Entrepreneurial spirit to be able to identify opportunities and execute Keen interest and knowledge in the activities of the industry Flexible and adaptable approach to work. Computer literate and proficient in the use of Excel and all other Microsoft Office applications. Proven ability to work to clear procedures and SOPs in accordance with regulatory requirements
Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. Duties and responsibilities may be subject to change based on organisational needs and priorities.

This role will have the support from Invest NI through the Supply Chain Resilience Programme, which the business is enrolled on. This will include guidance & mentorship from an INI Senior Supply Chain Advisor, as well as the opportunity to attend programme masterclasses.

WHAT WE OFFER

Friendly team environment Opportunities for learning and development Private health insurance with optical & dental cover Increased employer pension contribution No weekend working Free on-site parking 28 days holiday entitlement, inclusive of bank holidays

TERMS

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: From 38,000 + (Negotiable DOE)

Schedule:

38 Hours per week
Work Location: Castledawson

If you would like to join a progressive local company, we would love to hear from you!

Please forward your CV to pamela@essentialdesigngroup.com no later than

noon Fri 30th Jan 2026

Essential Designs NI Ltd reserve the right to enhance the essential / desirable criteria in order to facilitate shortlisting if required.

Essential Designs NI Ltd is an equal opportunities employer.

For more information about us, visit www.essentialdesigngroup.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 38,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Private dental insurance Private medical insurance
Ability to commute/relocate:

Magherafelt BT45: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

Supply chain management: 3 years (required) Manufacturing: 3 years (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 30/01/2026
Reference ID: SCRP2026