Head of Supply Chain Management

About the Role

We are seeking a strategic and driven Head of Supply Chain Management to lead and scale our global supplier and external workforce operations. This role is central to supporting our core Localisation services and our rapidly expanding Data Annotation and AI data services offerings.

You will play a critical role in shaping how we build, manage, and optimise our global network of suppliers, freelancers, and data annotation resources. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment and is excited by the intersection of language services and AI.

What You’ll Do

Lead & Scale the Function

Define and evolve the Supply Chain Management (SCM) operating model to support growth across Localisation and AI data services
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing global team
Align team performance with business priorities and drive accountability

Drive Capacity & Supply Strategy

Develop a clear view of global supplier capacity and workforce capability
Anticipate future client needs, particularly in AI data services
Strengthen and diversify the supply base to ensure scalability and resilience
Track KPIs and proactively address risks or gaps

Build a World-Class Supplier Network

Lead global recruitment of suppliers across languages, services, and modalities (Translation, MTPE, Transcreation, LQA, voice-over, DTP, transcription, data annotation, etc.)
Run targeted recruitment campaigns for key locales, verticals, and AI initiatives
Own end-to-end onboarding, testing, and qualification processes
Ensure all suppliers meet quality, contractual, and compliance standards

Develop Strategic Partnerships

Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
Negotiate competitive rates and commercial terms
Identify and onboard best-in-class providers across language, AI, and data services

Partner Across the Business

Collaborate with Sales, Production, and Solutions teams to shape service offerings
Provide supplier insights to support client proposals
Represent SCM in client engagements and internal forums

Drive Innovation & Efficiency

Lead automation initiatives to streamline onboarding and workflows
Implement efficient intake processes to support Sales and Solutions needs
Continuously improve processes to enhance scalability and reduce manual effort

Governance & Compliance

Own supplier data, documentation, and systems
Ensure data protection, security, and compliance standards are embedded
Act as key stakeholder for supplier-related systems and tools

What We’re Looking For

8+ years’ experience in localisation, language services, AI data services, or a related field
Proven leadership experience in vendor management, supply chain, talent acquisition, or workforce operations
Experience managing large external workforces (e.g. data annotation, BPO, or global freelance networks)
Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills
Experience scaling onboarding processes using automation, workflow tools, or supplier platforms
Knowledge of language services beyond translation (MTPE, LQA, transcreation, etc.)
Familiarity with CAT tools, MT engines, and AI-assisted production tools
Highly organised, analytical, and results-driven
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
Degree in Languages, Business, Operations, Procurement, or similar (preferred)
Additional languages are an advantage

Who You Are

A strategic leader who can operate at both a big-picture and hands-on level
Passionate about building scalable global operations
Comfortable navigating complexity and driving change
A collaborative partner who thrives cross-functionally
Curious and forward-thinking, with an interest in AI and evolving industry trends

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Head of Supply Chain Management