Role Overview for Chief Supply Chain Officer – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO) on behalf of our client, a rapidly growing and innovative medical device company based in San-Diego, CA. This is a pivotal leadership role for an individual who can architect and execute a world-class global supply chain strategy that is both resilient and agile, directly enabling the company’s mission to improve patient outcomes through groundbreaking technology.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the CSCO will have complete ownership of the end-to-end global supply chain. This includes strategic sourcing, procurement, demand and supply planning, inventory management, global logistics, warehousing, and distribution. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of building a scalable infrastructure to support aggressive growth, new product introductions, and international expansion.
In the highly regulated medical device sector, this role is critical for ensuring operational excellence while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance. You will be responsible for creating a supply chain that not only delivers significant cost efficiencies and operational improvements but also serves as a competitive advantage. You will lead a large, geographically dispersed team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on a fast-growing organization and shape the future of its global operations from the ground up.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Supply Chain Officer – San Diego, CA
The Chief Supply Chain Officer will be tasked with a wide range of strategic and operational responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Vision and Leadership
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, growth targets, and long-range plans. Drive transformative initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
End-to-End Supply Chain Management
Direct all facets of the supply chain, including demand planning, forecasting, strategic sourcing, procurement of raw materials and components, production planning, inventory control, and global logistics (transportation, warehousing, and distribution).
Supplier Relationship Management
Cultivate and manage strategic relationships with key global suppliers and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). Lead contract negotiations, establish supplier performance metrics (KPIs), and conduct regular business reviews to ensure performance, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)
Spearhead the S&OP process to create a single, integrated plan that balances demand, supply, and financial targets. Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Finance, R&D, and Regulatory Affairs to ensure alignment and optimize resource allocation.
Quality and Regulatory Compliance
Guarantee that all supply chain processes and systems adhere to the strictest industry standards. Ensure full compliance with FDA regulations for medical devices (21 CFR 820), ISO 13485, and other relevant international regulatory requirements. Partner closely with the Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs teams on audits, inspections, and quality system improvements.
Risk Mitigation and Business Continuity
Proactively identify potential risks within the supply chain (e.g., single-source suppliers, geopolitical instability, logistics disruptions) and develop robust mitigation and business continuity plans to ensure an uninterrupted supply of products to our customers.
Technology and Process Optimization
Champion the evaluation and implementation of advanced supply chain technologies, including ERP systems, advanced planning software, and analytics tools, to drive visibility, automation, and data-driven decision-making. Foster a culture of continuous improvement using methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma.
Financial Acumen and Budgetary Control
Develop and manage the annual supply chain operating budget and capital expenditure plans. Drive initiatives to optimize cost of goods sold (COGS), working capital, and overall supply chain costs. Provide accurate financial forecasting and variance analysis.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing global supply chain organization. Attract, retain, and mentor top talent, building a strong leadership pipeline and fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
Requirements for the Chief Supply Chain Officer – San Diego, CA
The successful candidate will be a seasoned executive with a proven track record of success in a complex, regulated environment. The specific qualifications we are seeking include:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
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 industry is mandatory. Experience in related regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, biologics, or life sciences will also be considered.
Technical Proficiency
Mastery of all core supply chain disciplines, including strategic sourcing, global logistics, inventory optimization, and demand planning. Extensive experience with modern ERP systems (such as SAP or Oracle) and advanced supply chain planning tools is essential.
Regulatory Knowledge
An in-depth understanding of the global regulatory landscape for medical devices, including FDA QSR (21 CFR 820), ISO 13485, and Medical Device Regulation (MDR) in Europe.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the proven ability to build, scale, and manage high-performing, multi-site teams. A track record of successfully leading through change and transformation. Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus with the executive team, Board of Directors, and external partners.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
Strong strategic thinking capabilities combined with a data-driven, analytical approach to problem-solving. Ability to translate complex data into actionable business strategies.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) from APICS/ASCM, or a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification are highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus plan.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (stock options or RSUs) that provides a meaningful opportunity for wealth creation tied to the company’s success.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. A robust wellness program, including gym membership reimbursement and mental health resources.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Generous Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to paid company holidays and sick leave.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family to move to the vibrant and beautiful San Diego, California area.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education to support your professional development.
How to Apply
If you are a transformative supply chain leader with a passion for innovation and a proven track record of success in the medical device industry, we strongly encourage you to apply for this confidential executive search. JRG Partners specializes in placing top-tier executives in critical leadership roles within high-growth organizations. To be considered, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments. To learn more about our dedicated expertise in this functional area, please visit our Supply Chain & Operations practice page. We are excited to review your application and discuss this exceptional opportunity with you.
