Supply Chain Director (Agri)
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations, is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the agribusiness sector. Our client, a titan in agricultural innovation and production, is seeking an exceptional and visionary Supply Chain Director (Agri) to spearhead their complex and critical supply chain operations. This pivotal role is designed for a strategic leader who possesses an unparalleled understanding of the agricultural landscape, from farm-gate to global markets, and who is driven to optimize efficiency, foster innovation, and ensure resilience across the entire value chain.
Role Overview for Supply Chain Director (Agri)
As the Supply Chain Director (Agri), you will be at the forefront of shaping and executing the company’s global supply chain strategy within the dynamic and often unpredictable agricultural industry. This is more than just a logistical role; it is a strategic leadership position that demands foresight, adaptability, and a deep commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. You will be responsible for overseeing all facets of the supply chain, including procurement of raw materials, inbound logistics, inventory management, warehousing, outbound logistics, distribution, and demand planning for a diverse portfolio of agricultural products.
Your strategic insights will directly impact the company’s market responsiveness, cost efficiency, and competitive advantage. The successful candidate will navigate the unique challenges of agricultural supply chains, such as seasonality, perishability, commodity price volatility, regulatory complexities, and global trade dynamics, transforming these challenges into opportunities for growth and optimization. You will build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact on a company that feeds the world, contributing to food security and sustainable agricultural practices on a global scale. We are looking for a leader who can not only manage but also transform, bringing cutting-edge practices and technologies to enhance resilience and agility in a rapidly evolving industry.
Key Responsibilities of Supply Chain Director (Agri)
Strategic Supply Chain Leadership
Develop, implement, and continuously refine a comprehensive global supply chain strategy tailored to the agricultural sector, aligning with overall business objectives and growth targets. This includes long-term planning for capacity, network design, and technology adoption.
End-to-End Operational Excellence
Oversee and optimize all supply chain functions, including procurement, planning, manufacturing support, logistics, warehousing, and distribution, ensuring seamless execution from source to customer. Drive process improvements and implement best practices across all operations.
Demand & Supply Planning
Lead the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process, collaborating closely with sales, marketing, and production teams to accurately forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and ensure timely product availability while minimizing waste and costs.
Logistics & Distribution Management
Manage complex domestic and international logistics, including freight, customs, and warehousing for agricultural commodities and finished goods. Optimize transportation networks, negotiate contracts with carriers, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
Procurement & Supplier Relationship Management
Develop and execute procurement strategies for raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and other essential agricultural inputs. Build strong, strategic relationships with suppliers, focusing on quality, cost-effectiveness, reliability, and ethical sourcing.
Inventory Optimization
Implement advanced inventory management techniques to balance service levels with working capital efficiency, addressing the unique challenges of agricultural product shelf-life, seasonality, and storage requirements.
Risk Management & Resilience
Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks specific to the agricultural industry, including weather events, geopolitical factors, trade policies, disease outbreaks, and market volatility. Develop robust contingency plans to ensure supply continuity.
Technology & Digital Transformation
Champion the adoption and integration of supply chain technologies (e.g., ERP, WMS, TMS, advanced analytics, blockchain) to enhance visibility, efficiency, and decision-making across the entire supply chain.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-driven culture, promoting continuous learning and professional growth.
Budget & Cost Management
Manage the supply chain budget effectively, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency gains without compromising quality or service levels. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance profitability.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Ensure all supply chain activities comply with food safety standards, agricultural regulations, quality specifications, and international trade laws.
Sustainability & Ethical Practices
Lead initiatives to enhance the sustainability of the agricultural supply chain, including reducing environmental footprint, promoting ethical sourcing, and supporting local communities. Understanding and implementing sustainable agricultural practices is paramount in this role.
Requirements for the Supply Chain Director (Agri)
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Agricultural Business, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in Supply Chain) is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain leadership roles, with at least 5-7 years specifically within the agricultural, food & beverage, or CPG industries with significant exposure to agricultural commodities.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable understanding of the unique complexities of agricultural supply chains, including seasonality, perishability, cold chain logistics, commodity trading, crop cycles, and regulatory environments (e.g., USDA, FDA, global phytosanitary regulations).
Leadership Acumen
Proven track record of building, leading, and developing high-performing, multi-functional supply chain teams in a global context. Exceptional ability to inspire and motivate.
Strategic Thinking
Ability to develop and execute long-term supply chain strategies that align with business goals and adapt to market changes. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
Operational Excellence
Extensive experience with S&OP processes, inventory management best practices, logistics optimization, and procurement strategies. Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement certifications are a plus.
Technological Proficiency
Strong command of ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and advanced planning software. Experience with data analytics and visualization tools.
Communication & Negotiation
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex strategies to diverse stakeholders. Superior negotiation skills for supplier and vendor management.
Global Mindset
Experience managing international supply chains, including navigating customs, tariffs, and diverse cultural business practices.
Adaptability
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and effectively manage multiple priorities under pressure.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional), CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management), or PMP (Project Management Professional) are highly advantageous.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. This includes:
Competitive Salary & Bonus Structure
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based annual bonus.
Equity/Stock Options
Opportunities for long-term incentives through equity participation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
Retirement Savings
Robust 401(k) plan with generous company matching contributions.
Generous Paid Time Off
Ample vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to support work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
Support for candidates requiring relocation to the Omaha, NE area.
Professional Development
Significant investment in your growth through executive training programs, industry conferences, and ongoing learning opportunities.
Impactful Work
The chance to lead critical initiatives in a company that plays a vital role in global food security and sustainable agriculture.
Dynamic Culture
A collaborative, innovative, and inclusive work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance programs, and other executive benefits.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary Supply Chain Director with a passion for agriculture and a proven track record of driving excellence and innovation, JRG Partners invites you to seize this extraordinary opportunity. We are committed to connecting exceptional talent with leading organizations. To be considered for this pivotal role, please submit your comprehensive resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this position. Explore more executive opportunities in supply chain with JRG Partners’ dedicated supply chain recruiting practice.
JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
