Beyond the Pathways: Recognition and Community
The SCS Framework is more than just a tool for internal improvement. It’s also a gateway to national recognition, peer benchmarking, and active participation in a growing community of supply chain excellence.
This page introduces two key features that extend your SCS journey beyond Bronze, Silver, and Gold: Aero Excellence and the SCS Directory.

Aero Excellence: Sector Leadership Recognition
Aero Excellence is a recognition strand that sits alongside the SCS Framework. It is not a fourth pathway or a formal maturity level — it is an acknowledgment of organisations that are helping shape the future of UK aerospace and defence.
Organisations may be recognised through Aero Excellence if they:
Demonstrate outstanding leadership across one or more SCS pillars
Contribute to national capability, innovation, or sustainability goals
Act as role models or mentors within the wider SCS community
Recognition may be by invitation or nomination, based on an organisation’s profile and progress. For more information, speak to your ADS regional representative or delivery contact.
The SCS Directory: Visibility and Benchmarking
The SCS Directory is a searchable, interactive listing that brings transparency and connectivity to the programme.
It includes:
Participating businesses by name, region, and maturity level
Registered SCS practitioners and approved delivery partners
Recognition highlights, such as Aero Excellence
The Directory allows you to:
Benchmark your maturity against others in your sector or region
Identify potential collaborators, advisors, or service providers
Export a snapshot PDF for internal or client use
Access the Directory through the ADS Assessor Platform or via your regional programme team.
Growing the SCS Ecosystem
Together, the three technical pathways, Aero Excellence, and the SCS Directory create a complete ecosystem for improvement:
Structure – through clear, consistent maturity models
Recognition – via certification and national-level acknowledgement
Connection – to others on a similar journey
Your pathway doesn’t end at Bronze, Silver, or Gold. It evolves into something more strategic, visible, and connected — helping you lead not just within your business, but across the sector.
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