Role Overview for Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a transformative Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO) for a pioneering, high-growth medical device company headquartered in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL. This is a career-defining executive leadership opportunity to architect and command a global supply chain that is not only efficient and cost-effective but also agile, resilient, and impeccably compliant. In an industry where the supply chain directly impacts patient outcomes, your leadership will be paramount to the company’s mission of advancing healthcare worldwide.
As the CSCO, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will be the strategic visionary responsible for the entire end-to-end supply chain, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery. This role demands a leader who can operate at a 30,000-foot strategic level while also possessing the depth to guide tactical execution across a complex global network.
You will inherit a talented team and be tasked with elevating its capabilities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to create a best-in-class supply chain organization. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, results-oriented leader with a profound understanding of the unique challenges and stringent regulatory demands of the medical device industry. Your work will ensure that life-saving and life-enhancing products are available to clinicians and patients when and where they are needed, without fail.
This position is based in Chicago, a critical hub for logistics and transportation, offering a strategic advantage for a global supply chain leader. You will leverage this location to optimize network design, build robust partnerships, and drive operational excellence. If you are an innovative supply chain executive with a passion for healthcare and a track record of transformative leadership, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
The Chief Supply Chain Officer will assume comprehensive responsibility for all global supply chain functions. Your mandate will be to build a scalable, strategic, and resilient operation that serves as a competitive advantage for the organization. Success in this role will be measured by improvements in operational efficiency, cost reduction, service levels, inventory optimization, and regulatory compliance.
Global Supply Chain Strategy
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term growth objectives, product pipeline, and market expansion plans. Champion initiatives that enhance agility, visibility, and resilience across the network.
End-to-End Operations Management
Provide executive oversight for all core supply chain functions, including demand and supply planning (S&OP), strategic sourcing, procurement, contract manufacturing management, inventory control and optimization, global logistics, warehousing, and customer fulfillment.
Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement
Drive a culture of continuous improvement by implementing Lean, Six Sigma, and other best-practice methodologies. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track performance, identify bottlenecks, and drive data-driven decision-making to enhance quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Supplier and Partner Relationship Management
Lead the development and management of strategic relationships with critical raw material suppliers, contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), and third-party logistics (3PL) providers. Negotiate favorable contracts and establish robust supplier performance management programs.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance
Ensure the entire supply chain operates in strict compliance with all applicable global regulations. You will be the ultimate owner of supply chain adherence to the complex web of FDA regulations for medical devices (e.g., 21 CFR Part 820), ISO 13485, and other international standards, working in close partnership with the Quality and Regulatory Affairs teams.
Technology and Digital Transformation
Spearhead the digital transformation of the supply chain. Evaluate, select, and implement advanced technologies, including ERP enhancements, advanced planning systems (APS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and analytics platforms to improve visibility, predictability, and automation.
Risk Management and Business Continuity
Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks within the supply chain, including geopolitical instability, supplier failures, transportation disruptions, and trade compliance issues. Develop and maintain robust business continuity plans to ensure an uninterrupted supply of products to the market.
Financial and Budgetary Oversight
Assume full P&L responsibility for the global supply chain organization. Develop and manage annual operating budgets, capital expenditure plans, and cost-reduction initiatives to contribute positively to the company’s bottom line.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a global team of supply chain professionals. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture and build a strong talent pipeline by investing in employee development, training, and succession planning.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key strategic partner to other executive leaders in R&D, Commercial, Manufacturing, Finance, and Quality. Ensure seamless integration and alignment on new product introductions, lifecycle management, and overall business strategy.
Requirements for the Chief Supply Chain Officer – Chicago, IL
We are seeking a seasoned and strategic executive with a proven history of leading complex supply chains within a highly regulated environment. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic acumen, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive capacity (e.g., Vice President, Senior Vice President, or CSCO) with global responsibility.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable and deep experience within the medical device, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industry is mandatory. A thorough understanding of the unique quality, regulatory, and logistical challenges of this sector is essential.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other relevant advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Certifications
Relevant professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS, Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), or a Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt are highly advantageous.
Technical and Functional Acumen
Proven expertise in managing all facets of a global supply chain. Deep knowledge of Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), complex ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and modern supply chain technologies.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership qualities with the ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams. A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization. Superior negotiation, communication, and presentation skills are required.
Global and Regulatory Mindset
Extensive experience managing international supply chains and a comprehensive understanding of global trade compliance. In-depth knowledge of FDA QSR, ISO 13485, and other international medical device regulations is critical.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the greater Chicago, IL metropolitan area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package commensurate with the strategic importance of this role.
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive compensation package including a substantial base salary, an aggressive annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term incentive plan (equity).
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
A full suite of benefits including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a strong company matching contribution.
Work-Life Balance
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, paid holidays, and a commitment to a healthy work-life integration.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation assistance package is available for qualified candidates and their families.
Professional Growth
Support for ongoing professional development, including executive coaching, conference attendance, and continuing education.
Impactful Mission
The unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization that is improving the lives of patients around the world.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm leading this recruitment. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applications from all qualified individuals.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Learn more about our expertise in supply chain and logistics executive search and how we connect top talent with transformative opportunities.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
