Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager

Full-Time, Permanent

Norwich or Barrow-in-Furness with Hybrid Working

The Purchasing & Supply Chain Manager leads purchasing and supply chain operations across Fendercare and Tankships, ensuring vessel requirements are met efficiently, suppliers deliver value, and procurement processes are followed. Managing a small team, the role combines hands‑on procurement, supplier management, and continuous improvement, while supporting the Head of Supply Chain Management in driving operational excellence across the business.

Full-Time, Permanent

Norwich or Barrow-in-Furness with Hybrid Working

• Oversee day‑to‑day vessel purchasing activities, ensuring requirements are fulfilled efficiently and supply issues are resolved promptly.
• Support critical vessel operations by managing supply risks and maintaining visibility of procurement activity.
• Source, evaluate, and develop suppliers to achieve the best balance of cost, quality, and service.
• Negotiate commercial terms, monitor supplier performance, and drive continuous improvement across the supplier base.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Purchasers and Supply Chain Coordinators.
• Promote high standards of performance, compliance, collaboration, and customer service.
• Drive consistent purchasing practices, governance, and procurement best practice across Fendercare and Tankships.
• Support supplier onboarding, quotation evaluation, and purchasing decision‑making.
• Support delivery scheduling, inventory management, and supply continuity to meet operational and vessel requirements.
• Mitigate supply chain risks and manage disruptions to minimise business impact.
• Ensure procurement data is accurately maintained and processes are consistently followed.
• Monitor key performance indicators, report on operational performance, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and delegated authority limits.

• Significant purchasing and supply chain experience within maritime, shipping, engineering, or a similar technical environment.
• Previous experience leading or supervising procurement and supply chain teams.
• Strong supplier sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management expertise.
• Knowledge of marine procurement, MRO materials, vessel operations, and international supply chain processes.
• Experience with ERP or vessel management systems (AMOS desirable).
• Understanding of import/export and customs requirements.

• Hands‑on leader with strong commercial awareness and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent organisational, problem‑solving, and prioritisation abilities.
• Confident communicator with the ability to build relationships, influence stakeholders, and develop others.
• High attention to detail, process discipline, and resilience in a fast‑paced operational environment.

• Relevant procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience is valued equally to formal qualifications.
• CIPS Level 4 or above (or equivalent) desirable.

• Competitive benefits tailored to the division
• Opportunities for career growth and visibility across the organisation
• A supportive, inclusive culture that values your ideas and contributions
• Work that truly makes a difference in safety, innovation, and global capability

James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise, and…