Supply Chain

Principal Consultant

Mick Roberts,  Keith Dickins, (click on the name link to see the profile and contact details)

CNA Executive Search has built a strong reputation for placing high calibre candidates from across the range of Supply Chain functions.

This sector includes supply chain roles across all industries, both in the private and public sector, and ranges through Procurement and Purchasing, Planning, Manufacturing, Distribution and Logistics, and Supply Chain General Management

A high level of service to our customers and candidates is possible because of the industry knowledge of our consultants and the collaborative approach with CNA colleagues working in specialist industry areas. This capability and network ensures that we can act quickly and professionally to meet our clients' requirements with a good understanding of the roles and responsibilities of senior managers in Supply Chain functions across many industry areas. In addition candidates are assured of talking to Consultants who are knowledgeable about their areas of expertise.

Purchasing and Procurement
Globalisation continues to be the major driver in the procurement arena as companies strive to maximise their ability to reduce cost, whilst managing the associated risks of dealing with suppliers who operate in other time zones and different business climates and cultures. Recent research states that, whilst 35% of CEOs report sourcing more than 10% from low-cost countries, that figure will grow to 47% in the next three years.

It remains critical therefore, in many companies, to attract suitably qualified and experienced purchasing personnel to manage this process, and have an awareness of the associated risks.

Equally industries where low-cost country sourcing may not be appropriate will need Senior Managers sufficiently creative and capable of meeting the continuing need for cost down activity throughout the value chain.
 
Manufacturing and Planning
Lean manufacturing practices, now relatively common place in the manufacturing setting, are being used in the wider business environment. Short lead times and JIT environments are putting pressure on planning teams to work cooperatively and cross-functionally with their colleagues to improve forecasting activity and ensure waste reduction and rapid reaction to market needs. Manufacturing Management continue to meet the challenges of cost inflation by well thought out capital investment, and ongoing attempts to improve flexibility. The make/buy/outsource decision is still critical with only 58% of manufacturing now  based in the home country of European organisations.
 
Distribution and Logistics
At times of continuing cost pressure within the distribution and logistics environment, utilisation of transport and warehousing, and creativity in ensuring this, is paramount. Outsourcing has been a viable option for many companies via a 3PL, and now 4PL, solution. Lack of supply chain flexibility is proving a barrier to globalisation and a resulting cost reduction potential, and creative and capable management is required to change this.
 
CNA Executive Search has been extensively involved in sourcing high-calibre candidates to help their clients resolve some of the above issues. Their contacts, sector knowledge, and prior business experience mean that they are well placed to add value to their clients' business, whether in manufacturing, retail, service, public sector or within the 3PL/4PL environment.