Role Overview for Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is proud to announce an exclusive search for a transformative Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO) on behalf of our client, a high-growth, market-leading enterprise based in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL. This is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned executive to architect and execute a world-class, end-to-end supply chain strategy that will serve as a cornerstone of the company’s long-term growth, profitability, and competitive advantage.
The Chief Supply Chain Officer will be a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will be entrusted with the ultimate responsibility for the entire global supply chain, encompassing strategic sourcing, procurement, logistics, warehousing, inventory management, demand and supply planning (S&OP), and distribution. We are seeking a visionary leader who can not only manage the complexities of today’s global supply chain but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow. You will be the driving force behind operational excellence, digital transformation, and sustainable practices across the organization. Your leadership will directly impact customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and the bottom line. This role demands a unique blend of strategic foresight, operational acumen, financial savvy, and inspirational leadership to build a resilient, agile, and data-driven supply chain ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global supply chain strategy that aligns with and enables the company’s overall business objectives, growth targets, and market expansion plans. Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation across all supply chain functions.
End-to-End Supply Chain Management
Assume full ownership of the entire supply chain lifecycle, including strategic sourcing and procurement, vendor relationship management, contract negotiation, inbound and outbound logistics, transportation management, and global trade compliance.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)
Lead the S&OP process, fostering cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to create a single, integrated business plan. Ensure that demand forecasts are accurate, and supply plans are robust and agile enough to respond to market volatility.
Inventory Optimization
Design and implement sophisticated inventory management strategies to optimize stock levels across the network. Utilize advanced analytics and forecasting tools to minimize carrying costs, reduce obsolescence, and maximize service levels and product availability.
Logistics and Distribution Excellence
Oversee the global network of warehouses, distribution centers, and transportation partners. Drive initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce transit times, lower costs, and enhance on-time delivery performance. Evaluate and implement new logistics technologies and network designs.
Digital Transformation & Technology
Champion the adoption and integration of cutting-edge supply chain technologies, including advanced ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and data analytics platforms. Leverage data to drive informed decision-making and predictive insights.
Team Leadership & Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing global supply chain organization. Foster a collaborative and results-oriented environment, promoting professional growth, skill development, and succession planning for key roles within the team.
Financial Acumen & Cost Management
Develop and manage the annual supply chain budget, with a relentless focus on identifying cost-saving opportunities and driving operational efficiencies. Maintain full P&L responsibility for supply chain operations and deliver regular performance reports to the executive team.
Risk Management & Resiliency
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks within the supply chain, including geopolitical instability, supplier disruptions, trade compliance issues, and natural disasters. Develop and implement robust business continuity and contingency plans to ensure operational resilience.
Supplier Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key suppliers and logistics providers. Lead negotiations for major contracts, establish performance metrics (KPIs), and conduct regular business reviews to ensure alignment and drive mutual value.
Sustainability & ESG Initiatives
Develop and integrate sustainable and ethical practices throughout the supply chain. Champion Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, including reducing carbon footprint, ensuring ethical sourcing, and promoting circular economy principles.
Continuous Improvement Culture
Implement and embed methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to foster a culture of continuous improvement. Develop and monitor a comprehensive set of KPIs to track performance, identify bottlenecks, and drive targeted improvements across all supply chain functions. Develop and implement cutting-edge supply chain management best practices to optimize performance and set industry benchmarks.
Requirements for the Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
Required Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
- A minimum of 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (VP, SVP, or CSCO) with global responsibility.
- Demonstrated success in leading large-scale supply chain transformation projects, including technology implementations and process re-engineering.
- Proven track record of managing a complex, global supply chain, preferably within the manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or retail industries.
- Exceptional financial acumen with experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and P&L responsibilities.
- Strong negotiation skills with a history of successfully managing complex supplier contracts and partnerships.
- In-depth knowledge of modern supply chain technologies, including ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced analytics tools.
Preferred Qualifications:
- An MBA or other advanced degree in a relevant field is highly preferred.
- Professional certifications such as CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) from ASCM/APICS or SCPro™ from CSCMP are highly desirable.
- Experience in a private equity-backed or high-growth public company environment.
- Demonstrated experience in implementing advanced data analytics, machine learning, or AI to drive supply chain improvements.
- Experience leading sustainability and ESG initiatives within a global supply chain.
- Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels, from the boardroom to the warehouse floor.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package, including:
- A competitive base salary and executive bonus program tied to company and individual performance.
- Meaningful equity participation or long-term incentive plan (LTIP).
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
- Executive-level benefits such as a car allowance, financial planning services, and executive coaching.
- Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- A commitment to professional development with a dedicated budget for conferences, certifications, and continuing education.
- A dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking company culture that values innovation and collaboration.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic vision for a modern supply chain. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
To learn more about how JRG Partners connects top talent with leading companies in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain Executive Search Firm practice area page.
