Mimi
Principal Supply Chain Manager
"If you want to work on something meaningful, nuclear is the place to be... It’s the kind of work that makes you stand a little taller."
From consumer goods to nuclear: A supply chain career with impact
Mimi started her working life in the fast-paced consumer goods industry, but feeling the pull to pursue a career with purpose rather than just a job, she decided to apply for a role in the nuclear sector.
Mimi talks through her career so far as a Principal Supply Chain Manager at BAE Systems, what attracted her to the sector, and her advice for aspiring nuclear professionals.
Stepping into a career that’s more than just a job
Career stability was one of the key deciding factors in Mimi’s decision to apply for a role in the nuclear sector, “I wanted something long-term, where I could grow and feel like I was making a real impact,” she explains.
Having grown up in Barrow-in-Furness, home to BAE Systems shipyard, the largest in the UK, she was well aware of the nuclear sector’s reputation for providing fulfilling and long-term careers. “I was looking for more than just a role—I wanted a career that offered opportunities for development and a sense of purpose,” she adds.
What excited her the most was the chance to start fresh in a completely new industry. ”I loved the idea of challenging myself in a sector that’s so critical to the country’s infrastructure and economy,” Mimi reflects.
What is it really like working in nuclear? Mimi’s expectations vs reality
Initially, Mimi wasn’t sure if she would fit into the nuclear sector. “I worried I wasn’t technical or scientific enough for the job,” she admits. But she quickly discovered that her expertise in collaboration, stakeholder management, project management, and procurement made her a perfect fit for the supply chain role.
“What I learned is that you don’t need to know everything about nuclear to succeed here,” Mimi emphasises. “The technical knowledge comes from your colleagues—you just need the skills to bring everything together.”
Her role in purchasing parts for nuclear reactors required a team-focused mindset, working alongside operations and engineering teams to ensure projects ran smoothly. The realisation that she could thrive in this complex environment gave her a new sense of confidence.
Mimi’s career journey so far
Mimi’s career in nuclear has been marked by growth and meaningful milestones. She began purchasing parts for nuclear reactors, an experience that honed her ability to navigate high-stakes projects while collaborating with diverse teams.
After maternity leave, Mimi took on the challenge of establishing the Supply Chain Early Careers Programme, designed to attract graduates and apprentices. “Seeing young professionals come into the industry and flourish in their roles has been one of my proudest achievements,” she says.
Now back in a purchasing role, Mimi enjoys working closely with the product and contributing to the development of the UK’s nuclear capabilities. “Every day brings something new, and knowing my work supports critical national infrastructure is incredibly rewarding,” she shares.
"Knowing I’ve played even a small part in something as monumental as a submarine or a reactor is an incredible feeling."
Supporting the next wave of nuclear talent
Mimi is passionate about inspiring the next generation of nuclear professionals. She stresses the importance of showcasing the variety of roles available. “Campaigns like Destination Nuclear are vital,” she explains. “They highlight that you don’t have to be an engineer to have a successful career in the sector.”
She also advocates for engaging young people through school outreach and social media. “If we can show students what’s possible in nuclear, we can attract a more diverse range of talent,” she says.
Mimi’s advice for those considering a career in nuclear is simple: don’t let a lack of technical knowledge hold you back. “The sector needs more than engineers,” she explains. “There’s room for all kinds of skill sets, whether you’re in supply chain, HR, or communications.”
She encourages potential applicants to focus on their transferable skills and how they can contribute to long-term, impactful projects. “If you want to work on something meaningful, nuclear is the place to be,” she says.
Mimi’s journey into the nuclear sector is proof that you don’t need a technical background to thrive. Her transition from consumer goods to nuclear demonstrates the power of transferable skills and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
“If you’re curious about nuclear, do your research, look at the opportunities, and don’t underestimate what you bring to the table,” she advises. With her work supporting national security and economic growth, Mimi is proud of the path she’s taken, and she’s excited about what lies ahead. “It’s a career that challenges you, rewards you, and gives you a sense of purpose,” she says.
“The nuclear industry plays a vital role in supporting communities across the UK, whether through clean and reliable energy generation or contributing to national defence and security.”
Your questions, answered honestly
Principal supply chain manager FAQs
What does a principal supply chain manager do?
A principal supply chain manager sits above the standard manager level, operating as a strategic leader rather than a day‑to‑day coordinator. It’s a role that blends high‑level planning with decisive, hands-on problem solving to ensure that every part of a complex, multi‑layered supply chain stays resilient and efficient.
Do I need a qualification to apply for a supply chain manager role?
You don’t need a specific qualification to kickstart your career in supply chain management. Many people move into this role through relevant experience in logistics, procurement, warehousing, or operations, building up relevant skills over time.
How do I know if I’m suited to a role in nuclear?
If you’re looking for a complete career change, joining the UK’s nuclear sector might be the perfect next step, and our career fit quiz can help you identify where your skills could take you.
With roles in nuclear spanning management, admin, engineering, inspecting, and more, the sector offers a wide range of pathways for people ready to build a long‑term, future‑proof career.
What are the top companies for hiring for nuclear careers?
The UK nuclear sector comprises a wide range of organisations, each playing a different role in supporting the future of clean energy.
If you’re exploring where you might fit, our organisation hub lets you browse opportunities across each company, compare roles, and get a clearer picture of the employers shaping the sector.
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