Role Overview for Chief Supply Chain Officer with an Aerospace & Defense – Orlando, FL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, technology-driven Aerospace and Defense (A&D) organization in Orlando, Florida, in their search for a visionary and transformative Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO). This is a critical executive leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. The successful candidate will be an integral member of the executive team, responsible for the architecture, strategy, and execution of a world-class global supply chain. Our client is a leader in developing cutting-edge solutions for government and commercial customers, and the supply chain is the backbone of their ability to deliver on complex, mission-critical programs.
As the CSCO, you will be empowered to redefine and optimize every facet of the supply chain, from strategic sourcing and procurement to global logistics, inventory management, and supplier relationship management. You will inherit a capable team and be tasked with elevating its performance to new heights, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability.
This role demands a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the unique complexities and regulatory demands of the A&D industry, including navigating regulations such as ITAR, EAR, and FAR/DFARS. You will be the driving force behind building a resilient, agile, and cost-effective supply chain that not only meets the rigorous demands of today but is also strategically positioned to support the company’s ambitious growth and technological advancements for the future. Your leadership will directly impact profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, making this a highly visible and impactful role within the organization.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned supply chain executive with a proven track record of success within the Aerospace & Defense sector. You are a leader who can balance high-level strategic planning with hands-on operational execution. You possess exceptional financial acumen, superior negotiation skills, and the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders. If you are a change agent passionate about building robust, technologically advanced supply chain ecosystems that provide a significant competitive advantage, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Supply Chain Officer with an Aerospace & Defense – Orlando, FL
The Chief Supply Chain Officer will have a broad scope of responsibilities, encompassing the full lifecycle of supply chain management. Key duties include:
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, growth targets, and technological roadmap. Champion the integration of emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics to enhance visibility, predictability, and efficiency across the supply chain.
End-to-End Supply Chain Management
Direct and oversee all supply chain functions, including strategic sourcing, procurement, material planning, inventory control and management, warehousing, global logistics, and distribution. Ensure seamless integration and communication between all functions to optimize performance.
Supplier Relationship Management
Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with a global network of suppliers. Lead the development of supplier performance metrics (KPIs), conduct regular business reviews, and implement supplier development programs to ensure quality, delivery, and cost objectives are consistently met. Lead high-stakes negotiations for long-term agreements and strategic partnerships.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
Drive a culture of continuous improvement by implementing Lean, Six Sigma, and other best-practice methodologies. Identify and eliminate waste, reduce lead times, optimize inventory levels, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Champion the implementation of industry-leading supply chain management best practices to achieve top-tier performance.
Risk Management & Compliance
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks within the supply chain, including geopolitical instability, supplier financial health, natural disasters, and cybersecurity threats. Ensure strict compliance with all relevant A&D industry regulations, including FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and AS9100 quality standards. Develop robust business continuity plans.
Financial & Performance Management
Develop and manage the annual supply chain budget, ensuring all activities are performed within established financial parameters. Drive cost-reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, negotiation, and process optimization without compromising quality or performance. Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to the executive team.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, multi-disciplinary supply chain organization. Foster a collaborative, results-oriented culture. Set clear goals and expectations, provide regular feedback, and create development pathways to build talent and ensure succession planning.
Technology & Systems Integration
Oversee the selection, implementation, and optimization of supply chain systems and technologies, including ERP, MRP, WMS, and advanced planning systems. Ensure that technology solutions support the strategic needs of the business and provide actionable data and insights.
Requirements for the Chief Supply Chain Officer with an Aerospace & Defense – Orlando, FL
Candidates must possess a combination of deep industry expertise, executive leadership experience, and a strong educational foundation to be successful in this role.
Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in supply chain management, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director, VP, or C-level) within the Aerospace & Defense industry. Verifiable track record of managing complex, global supply chains for organizations with significant manufacturing and government contracting operations.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in Supply Chain Management) is strongly preferred.
Industry Knowledge
Deep, hands-on knowledge of the A&D regulatory environment, including extensive experience with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and AS9100 quality standards.
Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation
Demonstrated expertise in developing and executing global sourcing strategies, managing complex contract negotiations, and building long-term, strategic supplier partnerships. Proven ability to achieve significant cost savings and performance improvements.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to inspire, motivate, and lead large, diverse teams. Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with the executive team, board members, customers, and suppliers.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial and analytical skills, with experience in budget development, cost management, and making data-driven decisions to improve financial performance.
Technical Proficiency
High proficiency with modern ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced supply chain planning and analytics tools.
Clearance
Must be a U.S. citizen and have the ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from ASCM/APICS or a SCOR-P endorsement.
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt certification is a plus).
- Experience leading a significant supply chain transformation or ERP system implementation.
- Prior experience working with the Department of Defense (DoD) and other major government agencies.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual performance-based bonus tied to individual and company performance metrics.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Meaningful equity or long-term cash incentives that align executive success with the long-term growth and value of the company.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for you and your eligible dependents. Includes access to wellness programs and mental health resources.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off (PTO)
A generous PTO policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your professional growth with support for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage (short and long-term), and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Chief Supply Chain Officer role. We are looking for a transformative leader ready to make a significant impact in a dynamic and growing organization. If your experience and aspirations align with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. All applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Aerospace & Defense executive search practice page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.
