Senior Global Supply Chain Manager, Aerospace and Defense
STS Aerospace, a division of Smiths Group plc, is a global leader in the Aerospace and Defense (A&D) sector specializing in the design, manufacture, and repair of advanced components for both commercial and defense platforms. Guided by our mission-Service and Solutions Above All-we are seeking a highly experienced, results-driven leader to strategically direct global supply chain activities, champion our One Aerospace transformation, and positively influence the implementation of Epicor Kinetics across multiple sites.
The Senior Global Supply Chain Manager will lead strategic sourcing and procurement across multiple international aerospace sites, driving global standardization and operational excellence. This role is accountable for developing and executing comprehensive sourcing strategies, building a high-performing supply chain organization, and ensuring supplier performance meets the stringent requirements of the aerospace and defense industry. Success requires deep expertise in regulatory compliance, AS9100 quality standards, ITAR/EAR controls, and the ability to manage complex commercial and defense contracts while delivering cost optimization and risk mitigation.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven track record in strategic sourcing with a focus on total cost of ownership (TCO) and risk mitigation in a complex, multi-site manufacturing environment. They must possess a cross-functional understanding of Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) and excel in negotiations, cost reduction, inventory optimization, customer service, supplier relationship management and compliant, ethical sourcing practices.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute global supply chain strategies that align with business goals for cost, quality, and delivery performance.
- Lead, mentor and build a high-performing team of sourcing, procurement and logistics professionals across multiple international sites.
- Establish and maintain strategic supplier relationships ensuring on-time delivery, quality conformance, and adherence to aerospace standards.
- Oversee the full procurement lifecycle, including vendor development, qualification and onboarding, and contract negotiation and administration, ensuring compliance with applicable laws/regulations.
- Implement proactive risk mitigation strategies to address geopolitical challenges, material shortages, or supplier performance issues.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and other methodologies to optimizing processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Business Development, Engineering, Production, Quality, and Program/Project Management to integrate supply chain activities and achieve strategic objectives.
- Manage inventory optimization and materials planning ensuring accurate forecasting and efficient resource allocation.
- Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain a competitive and innovative supply chain.
- Define and track KPIs providing actionable insights and performance reports to senior leadership.
- Lead supply chain standardization and compliance efforts as part of the multi-company Epicor Kinetic ERP implementation.
- Champion and create a global supply chain strategy that encourages/strengths supplier partnership and leverages ERP capabilities for operational excellence.
- Oversee end-to-end supply chain operations and ERP integration, aligning global strategies with data-driven workflows and best practices.
- Skills
- Leadership & Influence: Drive transformation by inspiring teams, championing change, and securing buy-in across regions and cultures.
- Strategic Communication: Deliver clear, concise messaging to executives, cross-functional teams and suppliers to align objectives and foster collaboration.
- Strategic Thinking: Align supply chain with business goals while anticipating risk and identifying opportunities.
- Adaptability & Resilience: Thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments with shifting priorities and complex challenges.
- Integrity & Compliance: Ensure ethical sourcing, regulatory adherence, and maintain a strong safety-first mindset.
- Emotional Intelligence: Foster trust and strong relationships through empathy, active listening and collaboration.
- Team Development: Coaching and mentoring to build high performing, engaged teams.
- Culture Building: Promote a positive, “can do” attitude and continuous improvement across all levels.
- Change Management: Lead cultural and operation shifts by overcoming resistance and embedding new ways of working.
- Negotiation & Contract Management: Skilled in securing favorable terms and managing complex agreements.
- Analytical Problem Solving: Apply root-cause analysis and data-driven insights for swift, informed decision-making.
- Global Mobility: Open to domestic and internationally travel to support business objectives.