Job Description

Join the Future of Autonomous Aviation

At SYOS, we are redefining what is possible across air, land and sea. As a pioneering aerospace and technology business, we develop cutting-edge autonomous systems that deliver real-world capability for defence, government and commercial customers.

As our Aviation business continues to grow, we are looking for an experienced and driven Supply Chain Manager - Aviation to help establish and lead a high-performing supply chain function from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity to join at the early stages of a new division, shape the way we operate and play a pivotal role in supporting the delivery of innovative aviation programmes.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy building teams and processes, and want to make a tangible impact in a growing aerospace business, we'd love to hear from you.

The SYOS way

We’re growing fast, taking on bigger challenges, and building technology that matters. At SYOS, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute, solve problems, and see your work make a real impact.

About the Role

Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, the Supply Chain Manager for Aviation will take ownership of procurement, stores and logistics activities across the Aviation Business Unit.

This is a hands-on management role where you will be responsible for building, developing and managing a team of supply chain professionals, establishing scalable processes, and ensuring materials, components and services are delivered to meet programme requirements, quality expectations and operational deadlines.

Working closely with Engineering, Production, Quality, Finance and Programme Management teams, you will help build a robust and resilient supply chain capable of supporting ambitious growth plans across our UK, Europe and New Zealand operations.

As Supply Chain Manager, you’ll:

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and develop the Aviation Supply Chain team, creating a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Take responsibility for day-to-day supply chain operations, ensuring alignment with business priorities and programme requirements.
• Support supply chain strategy implementation and ensure sourcing activities align with approved supplier routes.
• Monitor and report key performance metrics, driving continuous improvement across the function.
• Coach, mentor and develop team capability.

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Manage end-to-end supplier relationships and purchasing activities throughout programme delivery.
• Raise, manage and track purchase orders to support production schedules and project milestones.
• Identify, assess and onboard new suppliers through robust evaluation and sourcing processes.
• Lead RFQs, supplier assessments, cost analysis and supplier performance reviews.
• Support commercial negotiations to achieve cost, quality and delivery objectives.
• Monitor material availability, supplier performance and supply chain risks, taking proactive action where required.
• Work closely with Engineering and Production teams to support BOM management and new product introduction activities.
• Collaborate with Quality teams to resolve supplier non-conformances and drive supplier improvement.
• Maintain accurate ERP/MRP system data, including pricing, lead times and supplier information.

Stores, Logistics & Compliance

• Oversee stock control processes from receipt through to issue.
• Maintain accountability for stock accuracy, cycle counts and inventory management activities.
• Ensure stores operations align with quality requirements and ISO 9001 principles.
• Manage inbound and outbound logistics, including freight coordination and customs documentation.
• Work with freight forwarders and logistics providers to ensure timely deliveries.
• Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) qualified, working towards qualification, or able to demonstrate equivalent experience.
• Support export compliance activities and international shipment coordination.

Continuous Improvement

• Experience operating within a fast-paced manufacturing, engineering, aerospace, defence, or technology environment.
• Promote best practice across procurement, stores and logistics operations.
• Champion quality, compliance, health and safety, and ethical business practices throughout all activities.
• Support the ongoing development of SYOS systems, procedures and processes.

What You’ll Bring

• CIPS qualified, working towards qualification, or able to demonstrate equivalent experience.
• Minimum of five years' experience within procurement, purchasing or supply chain management.
• Previous leadership experience, including managing and developing teams.
• Experience operating within a fast-paced manufacturing, engineering, aerospace, defence or technology environment.
• Strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems such as NetSuite, SAP, Dynamics or similar.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and complex procurement activities.
• Experience with supply chain risk management and mitigation strategies.
• Ideally a knowledge of export control regulations and compliance procedures relevant to aerospace.
• Knowledge of import/export processes, freight movements and associated documentation.
• Experience supporting new product introduction and project-based delivery environments.
• Exposure to ISO 9001 quality management systems.

We’re a team of innovators, engineers, and problem-solvers who believe that great ideas can come from anyone. The best answer wins – regardless of title or experience. We’re not looking for people who just want another job. We’re looking for people who want to be part of the story.

Come build with us. Challenge us. Grow with us.

SYOS Aerospace – the time is now.

The products are evolving. Our global footprint is growing. The people who join today will help define what SYOS becomes tomorrow.

Security Requirement

To be eligible for this role, you must be able to meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). This includes confirming your identity, legal right to work in the UK, recent employment history, and criminal record (unspent convictions only).

We are not accepting unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies. Any CVs sent without prior agreement, including those shared directly with hiring managers, will be considered gifted and no fees will be payable.