Supply Chain Manager - External Operations

Job Description Supply Chain Manager - External Operations Location: Ireland, Dublin (On-site) Contract: Permanent Industry: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Overview An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Supply Chain Manager to join a leading global pharmaceutical manufacturer. This role is responsible for managing end-to-end commercial supply chain activities across an international manufacturing network, ensuring reliable product supply while driving operational excellence, inventory optimisation, supplier performance, and continuous improvement. Working within a highly collaborative environment, you will partner with internal stakeholders and external manufacturing partners to support commercial operations, maintain supply continuity, and deliver best-in-class supply chain performance. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain end-to-end network supply plans to ensure uninterrupted product availability. Lead supply planning activities across raw materials, APIs, drug product, packaging components and finished goods. Support and drive the monthly Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process through supply analysis, scenario planning, and risk assessment. Prepare long-range supply plans and provide strategic recommendations to support business growth. Develop inventory strategies to optimise stock levels while balancing customer service and financial objectives. Manage inventory planning parameters, ageing stock, excess inventory, and obsolescence within SAP. Execute purchasing activities and manage purchase orders for commercial supply chain operations. Build strong relationships with external suppliers and contract manufacturing partners, ensuring supplier performance and compliance. Monitor supplier performance through KPI reporting, business reviews, and governance meetings. Support SAP planning activities and ensure data accuracy and process compliance. Lead supply chain risk management initiatives and develop mitigation strategies to improve supply continuity. Drive business process improvements and implement best practices across commercial supply chain operations. Collaborate closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, Procurement, Commercial, and External Operations teams to achieve business objectives. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, Science, or a related discipline. Minimum 7-10 years' experience within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or regulated manufacturing supply chain environments. Strong experience in end-to-end supply planning and commercial supply chain management. Proven experience leading Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes. Experience managing inventory planning, purchasing, and supplier performance. Strong knowledge of SAP ERP planning systems. Experience working within GMP-regulated manufacturing environments. Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills. Strong analytical, problem-solving, project management, and change management capabilities. Experience working with external manufacturing partners (CMOs/CDMOs) is highly advantageous. APICS/CPIM certification or equivalent is desirable. Key Skills Commercial Supply Chain Management Network Supply Planning Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Inventory Optimisation SAP ERP Purchasing & Procurement Supplier Relationship Management External Manufacturing (CMO/CDMO) KPI Development & Performance Management Supply Chain Risk Management Business Continuity Planning Continuous Improvement Cross-Functional Leadership Project & Change Management What's on Offer Opportunity to join a globally recognized pharmaceutical organization. Exposure to complex global supply chain operations. Collaborative and high-performing work environment. Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Silindile at Next Generation Recruitment on +353 1 902 6693.