Ultra

The Head of Supplier Performance

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England, UK Full time

We are Ultra Precision Control Systems

Ultra PCS is a leading developer of mission and safety critical equipment in the defence and aerospace industry. Our team of experts are at the heart of our success, which is why we are dedicated to fostering a safe working environment and a positive culture where every staff member feels valued and respected.

We solve our customers' problems, providing engineering solutions to safety and mission critical challenges in the air and on the ground. Our solutions can be found in the latest military aircraft and vehicles, in civil aircraft, and in unmanned vehicles.

We help to ensure our customers get to where they need to be safely, achieve their objectives and keep on going back.

Flexible Working

Wherever possible, we will consider a variety of working options to suit your lifestyle, whether that be hybrid home/office working, flexible working and part or full time employment. It's the 'innovating' and 'empowering' values that we ASPIRE to be. We welcome the challenge to work in new ways and have trust in you when getting the job done because we recognise, our business is our people.

Job Description

Ultra Precision Control Systems (PCS) are looking for a Head of Supplier Performance to join the team, reporting into the Supply Chain Director. The Head of Supplier Performance is responsible for defining and executing the global supplier performance and development strategy to achieve a Zero Defects culture across the supply base. This includes governance of quality, delivery, cost, cybersecurity, environmental compliance, and regulatory adherence (AS9100, EASA/CAA Part 145, Part 21J, 21G, ISO 27001, ISO 14001, Cyber Essentials Plus, CAAC). The role ensures deployment of Zero Defects tools including APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, and structured problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Establish and govern the Supplier Zero Defects Strategy, embedding Zero Defects tools into supplier performance management.
  • Lead the deployment of APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, problem-solving across suppliers.
  • Develop Product Control Plans and supplier KPI frameworks aligned with Zero Defects expectations.
  • Ensure supplier compliance with AS9100, AS9145, Part 145, Part 21J/G, CAAC, ISO 27001, ISO 14001.
  • Achieve and sustain >98% On-Time Delivery, reduce DPPM, and eliminate escapes.
  • Drive supplier capability development, process control, and manufacturing robustness.
  • Lead supplier governance including Business Reviews, scorecards, and improvement roadmaps.
  • Introducing new methods of working through using Artificial Intelligence
  • Implement a culture and behaviour of challenging and seeking robust resolutions to supplier issues that arise.

Required Skills & Experience:

  • Zero Defects leadership mindset.
  • Expertise in APQP/PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, and SPC.
  • Strong aerospace regulatory knowledge.
  • Supplier development and coaching capability.
  • Analytical, data-driven decision-making.
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to lead global multifunctional teams.

Lead Auditor

Benefits:

Every employee is critical to our success and as such we offer a range of flexible employee benefits along with career development opportunities.

  • Flexible working within core working hours

  • 25 days holiday (185 hrs) with the option to buy/sell 5 days (37 hrs) plus bank holidays.

  • 4 times your annual salary in life assurance

  • Flexible benefits package

  • Pension Scheme - Less than 5 years' service up to 5.5% employer contributions, 5 years' service + up to 7.5% employer contributions. 

  • Sports and Social club

  • Supportive and friendly working environment with regular team events

You couldn’t be joining the team and Ultra at a more exciting time. Therefore if this sounds of interest, please follow the application process.

Nationality Requirements

Candidates must be able to work in the UK without restrictions in accordance with UK National Law and be prepared to successfully undertake an appropriate level of UK National Security Vetting according to UK Government National Security Vetting criteria.

Diverse & Inclusive Employer

Ultra PCS is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. Underpinned by our values, behaviours, and policies, we want you to feel empowered to be your best and authentic self.

We promote a workplace that welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures; believing that this will increase our diversity of thinking, and ultimately ensure we continue delivering on our commitments to our customers.

We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status and welcome applications from all candidates.