As Raw Materials Manager, you will lead the planning and supply of raw materials across a complex manufacturing operation, ensuring material availability supports customer service, production performance, and inventory objectives. Working closely with Operations, Procurement, Demand Planning, Commercial, and Logistics teams, you will manage supply risks, optimise stock levels, and drive continuous improvement across the end-to-end supply chain. This role requires a strong people leader who can influence stakeholders across a matrix organisation, navigate ambiguity, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment while balancing service, cost, and inventory performance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the Raw Materials Planning team to ensure the timely availability of materials required to support production and customer service targets.
- Develop and execute material planning strategies that optimise inventory levels, minimise waste, and improve working capital performance.
- Collaborate with Procurement, Operations, Demand Planning, Commercial, and Logistics teams to align supply plans with business requirements.
- Manage material shortages, supply disruptions, and changing priorities, implementing effective contingency plans to minimise operational risk.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across planning processes, systems, reporting, and team capability to enhance overall supply chain performance.
About You
We believe success comes from collaboration and diverse perspectives. At Samworth Brothers, we value team players who are driven to achieve great results together. You’ll bring the following skills and experience:
- Proven experience in a Materials Planning, Supply Planning, Inventory Management, or Raw Materials leadership role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, ideally FMCG or food manufacturing.
- Strong leadership capability with experience developing and managing high-performing teams through coaching, engagement, and accountability.
- Demonstrated ability to influence and build credibility across a matrix organisation, effectively managing multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.
- Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data, identify risks, and translate insights into effective actions.
- Degree-level qualification in Supply Chain, Business, Operations Management, or a related discipline, or equivalent industry experience. Professional supply chain qualifications (APICS, CIPS, CPIM, or similar) would be advantageous.
What We Offer
We’re building a workplace where different ways of thinking are not just welcomed but supported, with clear communication, flexible processes, and a commitment to continuous improvement so everyone can thrive.
Company pension scheme
Access to health and well-being support, such as healthcare, optical and dental discounts
Employee discount scheme
Experience annual pay reviews
Profit related pay
Opportunity for extended leave
Free on-site parking
Unlock your potential through training and growth opportunities