Role Overview for VP, Supply Chain Strategy with an Automotive Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in automotive manufacturing, a company at the forefront of the industry’s seismic shift towards electrification, autonomous technology, and sustainable mobility. Based in the heart of the automotive world, Detroit, MI, our client is seeking a visionary and transformative Vice President of Supply Chain Strategy.
This is not merely an operational role; it is a pivotal executive position responsible for architecting the supply chain of the future. The successful candidate will design and implement a global strategy that is not only cost-effective and efficient but also agile, resilient, and technologically advanced enough to support the next generation of vehicles.
Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the VP of Supply Chain Strategy will serve as the central architect for the end-to-end supply chain ecosystem. You will be tasked with developing a multi-year roadmap that anticipates market shifts, mitigates geopolitical risks, leverages cutting-edge technology, and embeds sustainability into the core of operations. This role demands a leader who can think beyond traditional logistics and procurement, someone who can build strategic partnerships, champion digital transformation, and ultimately use the supply chain as a competitive weapon. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on a legendary automotive brand and shape the future of mobility for decades to come.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Supply Chain Strategy with an Automotive Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
The VP of Supply Chain Strategy will have a broad and impactful mandate. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Vision & Long-Range Planning
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive 5-10 year global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, including EV transition targets, market expansion, and profitability goals. Conduct in-depth market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and scenario planning to ensure the strategy remains robust and adaptive.
Global Supply Network Design & Optimization
Architect the optimal global network of suppliers, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers. Lead initiatives on network modeling, logistics flow analysis, and strategic footprint decisions, including near-shoring, re-shoring, and global sourcing strategies to balance cost, risk, and speed.
Digital Transformation & Technology Integration
Champion the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies across the supply chain. Drive the implementation of digital twins, predictive analytics for demand forecasting, AI/ML for inventory optimization, blockchain for traceability, and advanced control tower platforms for end-to-end visibility.
Advanced Risk Management & Resilience
Establish a world-class supply chain risk management framework. Proactively identify potential disruptions—from geopolitical instability and trade policy shifts to raw material shortages and climate events—and develop robust mitigation and contingency plans. The focus will be on building a more resilient automotive supply chain that can withstand and adapt to volatility.
Sustainability (ESG) Strategy Integration
Lead the charge in creating a green and ethical supply chain. Develop and implement strategies to reduce the carbon footprint of logistics, ensure ethical sourcing of critical raw materials (e.g., cobalt, lithium), and promote circular economy principles within the value chain.
Cost Optimization & Financial Performance
Drive initiatives to improve the financial performance of the supply chain. Implement advanced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) models, optimize working capital through strategic inventory management, and identify and execute significant cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or resilience.
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Partnerships
Evolve the procurement function from a transactional focus to one of strategic partnership. Cultivate deep, collaborative relationships with critical Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, fostering co-innovation, joint business planning, and long-term value creation.
Cross-Functional Executive Collaboration
Act as a key business partner to the executive leadership team. Collaborate closely with Engineering on design-for-supply-chain principles, with Manufacturing to optimize material flow and Just-in-Time delivery, and with Finance to align on capital allocation and inventory targets.
Leadership & Talent Development
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing global supply chain strategy organization. Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making, continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability.
Performance Analytics & Governance
Define, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as On-Time In-Full (OTIF), cash-to-cash cycle time, inventory turns, forecast accuracy, and total supply chain cost as a percentage of revenue.
Requirements for the VP, Supply Chain Strategy with an Automotive Manufacturer – Detroit, MI
This senior executive role requires a specific blend of industry expertise, strategic vision, and leadership gravitas. Qualified candidates will possess:
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, operations, or strategic planning, with at least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role (Director, VP, or equivalent) with significant strategic responsibility.
Industry Expertise
Deep, demonstrable experience within the automotive manufacturing sector is non-negotiable. A strong understanding of both traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and modern Electric Vehicle (EV) supply chains, including battery sourcing and management, is critical.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Supply Chain Management) is strongly preferred.
Strategic Acumen
A proven track record of developing and successfully implementing large-scale, complex supply chain strategies that have delivered measurable business results in terms of cost, service, and resilience.
Technological Proficiency
Hands-on experience with modern supply chain technologies, including ERP systems (e.g., SAP S/4HANA), Advanced Planning Systems (APS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and supply chain visibility platforms.
Financial Literacy
Expert-level understanding of financial statements, P&L management, cost accounting, and working capital optimization. Must be able to build a compelling business case for strategic investments.
Global Mindset
Extensive experience managing complex, multi-billion dollar global supply chains. Must have a sophisticated understanding of international trade regulations, tariffs, customs, and geopolitical dynamics.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to influence and align stakeholders across all levels of a global organization, from the factory floor to the Board of Directors, is essential.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from ASCM/APICS or SCPro™ from CSCMP are highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a comprehensive and highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent, including:
- A highly competitive executive compensation package including a substantial base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a long-term incentive plan (equity/stock options).
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- An executive-level car allowance or company vehicle program.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and parental leave policies.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates and their families.
- Ongoing support for professional development, executive coaching, and continuing education.
- Access to corporate wellness programs, on-site fitness facilities, and other employee-centric resources.
How to Apply
This is a confidential search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary supply chain leader with the experience and drive to redefine automotive logistics, we invite you to apply. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your most significant strategic accomplishments. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit our Industrial, Manufacturing & Supply Chain executive search practice. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce.
