Supply Chain Manager in Colchester, Essex

Supply Chain Manager

Location: North Essex - commutable from Colchester, Ipswich, Witham
Salary: £40,000–£50,000

Own transport required due to location

We are seeking a commercially minded Procurement & Projects Costings Manager to take ownership of project estimating, cost control and procurement within a specialist manufacturing business.

This is a hands-on role combining strategic purchasing with project costings. You will play a key part in ensuring projects are accurately priced, commercially viable and delivered within budget, working closely with Sales, Finance, Projects and international suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed project estimates, material take-offs and cost build-ups from technical drawings, specifications and client briefs.
• Obtain and negotiate supplier pricing to support accurate customer quotations and protect project margins.
• Manage project costs from initial estimate through to delivery, monitoring budgets, expenditure and forecast costs.
• Identify cost variances, risks and opportunities for improved profitability.
• Manage day-to-day procurement, including supplier selection, purchasing, order management and delivery expediting.
• Evaluate UK and international sourcing, freight, import duties and overall landed costs.
• Build strong supplier relationships and identify opportunities for cost savings and supply chain improvements.

About You

• Proven experience in procurement within a manufacturing and project-based environment.
• CIPS Level 4 or equivalent
• Confident interpreting technical drawings, specifications and bills of materials.
• Strong understanding of cost build-ups, quantity take-offs and project margin control.
• Experienced in supplier negotiation, purchasing and international procurement.
• Excellent Excel skills with strong analytical and commercial awareness.
• Highly organised, accurate and confident communicating across different departments.