Procurement Operations Manager (Bristol, GB)

This review offers a professional assessment of the Procurement Operations Manager position at GKN Aerospace, highlighting key advantages and considerations for prospective candidates aiming to advance their careers.

Embark on a Rewarding Career in Aerospace with GKN Aerospace

GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of reimagining air travel, driving innovation towards a future that is further, faster, and greener. With a global presence spanning 12 countries and serving over 90% of aircraft and engine manufacturers, the company offers a dynamic and impactful career path. At their Filton site, specializing in large, complex structural wing assemblies and wing systems, GKN Aerospace is seeking a dedicated Procurement Operations Manager.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role: As Procurement Operations Manager, you will directly influence the operational excellence of a high-value supply chain, managing an impressive spend of £50-100 million. Your leadership will be crucial in ensuring supplier deliveries meet and exceed performance expectations, directly contributing to the future of aviation.
• Leadership and Development: This role offers a significant leadership opportunity to manage and develop a team of seven talented operational buyers. You will have the chance to champion continuous improvement, mentor your team, and foster succession planning, significantly contributing to their professional growth.
• Strategic Influence: You will be instrumental in embedding standardized procurement processes, driving daily stand-up meetings, weekly KPI reviews, and championing continuous improvement initiatives. Your ability to consolidate site-level procurement data, manage scorecards, and assess risks will optimize supply chain operations.
• Career Growth and Opportunity: GKN Aerospace emphasizes career progression, offering a "world of opportunity" and supporting your journey through dedicated learning and development programs. The global nature of the business means your career path can be diverse and far-reaching.
• Attractive Compensation and Benefits: The company provides a competitive salary, a performance-based bonus of up to 15%, an industry-leading pension scheme, life assurance, generous holiday entitlement, flexible working hours (including early finishes on Fridays), and a comprehensive benefits package including shopping discounts, cycle-to-work schemes, and employee assistance programs.
• Innovative and Sustainable Environment: You will be part of an organization committed to pushing the boundaries of aerospace innovation and placing sustainability at the core of its operations.
• Inclusive Culture: GKN Aerospace is dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative environment where all employees feel welcome and valued. Their commitment to diversity has earned them "The Best Workplace Culture Award."

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Experience and Qualifications: Candidates are expected to possess a degree (or equivalent) in Business, Engineering, or Science, or a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in procurement, supply chain management, or production management. Strong leadership and a proven track record in driving performance excellence are essential.
• Industry Knowledge (Desirable): While not strictly essential, a strong understanding of the aerospace industry and its emerging trends, coupled with robust analytical and decision-making skills, will be a significant advantage. Experience with Integrated Business Planning (IBP) and MRP/ERP systems is also beneficial.
• Proactive and Collaborative Mindset: The role requires excellent organizational and communication skills, a positive "can-do" attitude, and the ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively within a team. You should be driven by making a tangible impact.
• Strategic Vision: Beyond operational management, this role requires a strategic approach to supplier relationships, stakeholder engagement, and budgetary accountability, aiming to drive strategic alignment and cost-effectiveness.

This Procurement Operations Manager position at GKN Aerospace presents a compelling opportunity for experienced professionals looking to lead, innovate, and shape the future of aerospace. If you are driven by impact, possess strong leadership capabilities, and seek a career with substantial growth potential within a globally recognized leader, this role is certainly worth exploring.