Supply Chain Lead Manager

The Supply Chain Lead / Manager is responsible for managing, optimizing, and overseeing complete end-to-end supply chain operations. This includes strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, logistics, distribution, and inventory control. The role ensures timely, cost-effective, and high-quality acquisition of materials and services while maintaining compliance with internal standards and global best practices.

This position plays a critical role in supplier development, cost control, product development support, and risk mitigation—particularly within the automotive upstream accessories and product development sector.

Salary: AED 18,000 - 25,000 per month

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning & Supply Chain Optimization

• Develop and implement robust supply chain strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Identify process bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and report supply chain KPIs to enhance efficiency and operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System requirements.

2. Procurement & Vendor Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers; maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Lead strategic sourcing, negotiations, and contract management.
• Ensure timely procurement of quality materials at optimal cost.
• Monitor supplier SLAs, performance, compliance standards, and corrective actions.
• Lead supplier development initiatives across China, Asia, and Europe; conduct comprehensive factory audits to ensure capability, quality, and compliance.
• Manage overseas supply and develop new suppliers for existing and new business needs.
• Expand supplier profiles in global markets, enabling faster development at the right cost.
• Ensure suppliers meet the organization’s requirements for cost, quality, delivery, and service.

3. Logistics & Distribution

• Manage inbound and outbound logistics, warehousing, transportation, and distribution operations.
• Optimize shipping routes, transportation methods, delivery timelines, and logistics costs.
• Ensure timely and accurate delivery of materials and finished products.
• Responsible for demand management and sales forecasting.
• Oversee supplier production schedules and on-time customer delivery.
• Manage inbound and outbound freight operations.

4. Inventory Management & Material Audit

• Monitor inventory levels to ensure sufficient stock without overstocking.
• Implement inventory control systems such as FIFO, JIT, and demand forecasting.
• Coordinate and oversee material audits to ensure accuracy of stock records and material movement.
• Conduct periodic and surprise audits to identify discrepancies and enforce corrective actions.
• Oversee physical inventory counts and cycle audits to maintain stock integrity.
• Ensure proper documentation and full traceability of all materials used in production and projects.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Design, SCM, Sales, Finance, Quality, R&D, and Production.
• Support product development teams with sourcing and supply risk management.
• Address customer concerns related to delays, shortages, or product availability.
• Maintain comprehensive supply chain records, reports, and documentation.

6. Compliance, Governance & Risk Management

• Ensure all supply chain activities comply with legal, regulatory, and safety standards.
• Identify and mitigate operational, financial, and geopolitical supply chain risks.
• Develop and implement contingency plans for supply disruptions.
• Manage supplier rating systems to support quality-related requirements.

7. Reporting & Budgeting

• Prepare supply chain budgets, forecasts, and cost analyses.
• Monitor financial performance versus plan and initiate corrective action where required.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or Logistics; Master’s degree preferred.
• Proven experience as a Head of Supply Chain or Supply Chain Manager within OEM automotive accessory divisions (Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Suzuki, Stellantis, etc.).
• Strong procurement background in automotive components, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
• Extensive experience managing supply chain operations across China, Asia, Europe, and India, including supplier development, factory audits, site visits, and commercial negotiations (direct travel required).
• Strong contract negotiation capabilities and proven success in managing vendor performance.
• Deep understanding of logistics operations, inventory management, production planning, and coordination.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to monitor KPIs and drive improvements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to identify, mitigate, and manage supply chain risks in fast-paced, complex environments.