Material Controller- Contract and Supplier Performance

Role Overview

This role operates at the intersection of technical maintenance demand and commercial supply strategy. You will turn raw material data and contract performance intelligence into clear recommendations that shape how agreements are negotiated, how inventory is optimised, and how suppliers are measured and improved. On any given day, you might be analysing component cost variances, reviewing contract compliance, or compiling management reports that guide decisions on supplier selection and renewal. Your work directly supports uninterrupted maintenance operations by balancing availability of parts against cost control and supplier accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive contract negotiation preparation by analysing and reviewing materials data, spend history, and supplier pricing trends.
• Operationalise newly signed contracts and existing framework agreements so that procurement and maintenance teams can work smoothly within agreed terms.
• Monitor the performance of various agreement types—including customer-specific, general, and ad-hoc arrangements—and ensure they deliver expected value.
• Prepare regular and on-demand management reports covering material costs, contract compliance, supplier performance, and inventory health.
• Perform structured reviews of materials costs, identify variances against budget, and propose corrective actions or alternative sourcing approaches.
• Establish and maintain supplier performance indicators using industry-proven measurement techniques, then feed those insights back into contract decisions.
• Collaborate with engineering, planning, and supply-chain teams to ensure the right components are available at the right time without exceeding budget.
• Apply knowledge of maintenance documentation and airworthiness requirements when reviewing material requests and supplier proposals.

Requirements & Qualifications

• University degree in Engineering or Supply Chain Management; membership in a relevant professional body is an added advantage.
• At least 5 years of practical working experience, ideally within aircraft maintenance or another technical engineering field.
• Proven experience in a material cost control role, including budgeting, monitoring, and supervising the smooth supply of materials against maintenance requirements.
• Solid contract management experience, preferably covering negotiation, implementation, and ongoing supplier governance.
• Strong knowledge of inventory management, including stocking policies, demand patterns, and material replenishment principles.
• Advanced Excel skills and confident use of IT systems, particularly those that support materials management and data analysis.
• Ability to read and interpret approved maintenance documentation such as IPC, RSPL, AMM, SB, and similar references.
• Familiarity with aircraft components and parts, including airworthiness certification rules from EASA, FAA, and KCAA, as well as customs regulations relevant to aircraft parts.
• Good understanding of IATA resolutions and broader aviation industry rules affecting materials and logistics.
• Strong analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills, with the capability to negotiate, influence, and build lasting working relationships.
• Organised time and project management skills, alongside a results-oriented mindset and ability to meet deadlines under pressure.
• High level of patience, resilience, and stress tolerance, with sound conflict-resolution skills and attention to detail.
• Unquestionable integrity and ethical standards, reflected in all decisions involving spending, supplier selection, and contractual dealings.