Role Overview for Director, Global Supply Chain with a Medical Device Co. – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering medical device company in their search for a visionary and strategic Director, Global Supply Chain. Based in the vibrant med-tech hub of Minneapolis, MN, this executive leadership role is critical to the company’s mission of improving patient outcomes through innovative healthcare solutions. You will be the architect of a world-class, end-to-end supply chain, responsible for creating a resilient, agile, and cost-effective operational backbone that supports rapid global growth and stringent regulatory standards.
As the Director, Global Supply Chain, you will hold ultimate accountability for the entire supply chain lifecycle, from strategic sourcing and procurement to demand planning, inventory management, logistics, and distribution. This is not just a management role; it is a transformative one. You will be challenged to re-imagine processes, implement cutting-edge technologies, and build a culture of continuous improvement across a global network. You will lead a talented team of supply chain professionals, providing the mentorship, direction, and strategic vision necessary to elevate their performance and achieve ambitious corporate objectives.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of success within the medical device or a similarly regulated industry. You possess a deep understanding of global market dynamics, supplier relationship management, and the complexities of operating under FDA and ISO regulations. Your strategic mindset will be essential in developing and executing a multi-year plan that mitigates risk, enhances supplier performance, optimizes working capital, and ensures the highest levels of product quality and customer satisfaction. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing organization and, by extension, on the lives of patients around the world. If you are a results-driven supply chain expert ready to take on a career-defining challenge, we invite you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Global Supply Chain with a Medical Device Co. – Minneapolis, MN
Strategic Leadership & Planning
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term growth objectives, focusing on scalability, agility, and operational excellence.
SIOP Process Ownership
Lead and mature the Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP) process to create a single, consensus-based plan that aligns demand, supply, and financial targets across the organization.
Team Development & Mentorship
Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing global supply chain team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning to build organizational capability.
Global Sourcing & Procurement
Oversee the strategic sourcing and procurement functions to build a robust and diversified supplier base. Lead high-stakes negotiations, manage supplier performance, and implement risk mitigation strategies.
Inventory Management & Optimization
Design and implement advanced inventory management strategies (e.g., VMI, consignment, safety stock optimization) to improve service levels and optimize working capital across a global network of distribution centers.
Logistics & Distribution
Direct all global logistics, warehousing, and transportation activities. Ensure the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods from suppliers to customers, including managing third-party logistics (3PL) partners.
Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance
Ensure all supply chain activities adhere to strict medical device regulations, including FDA QSR (21 CFR 820) and ISO 13485. Partner closely with the Quality and Regulatory Affairs teams to manage supplier quality and maintain a compliant supply chain.
New Product Introduction (NPI)
Collaborate with R&D, Engineering, and Marketing teams to provide critical supply chain leadership for new product launches, ensuring a seamless transition from development to full-scale production and commercialization.
Technology & Systems Integration
Drive the selection and implementation of supply chain technologies, including ERP enhancements, WMS, and advanced planning systems, to improve visibility, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.
Financial Acumen & Budget Management
Develop and manage the annual supply chain budget, including freight, warehousing, and personnel costs. Identify and execute cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or service.
Performance Metrics & Reporting
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for the entire supply chain, such as on-time delivery, inventory turns, forecast accuracy, and cost per unit. Use this data to drive performance improvements.
Risk Management
Proactively identify potential risks within the supply chain (e.g., geopolitical instability, single-source suppliers, transportation disruptions) and develop robust contingency and business continuity plans.
Requirements for the Director, Global Supply Chain with a Medical Device Co. – Minneapolis, MN
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a significant leadership role overseeing a global team and multi-site operations.
Industry Expertise
Direct experience within the medical device industry is highly required. Experience in other highly regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, biologics, or aerospace may be considered.
Regulatory Knowledge
Demonstrable expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments, including a deep understanding of FDA regulations (specifically 21 CFR 820) and international quality standards like ISO 13485.
Technical Skills
Advanced proficiency with Tier 1 ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, JDE) is essential. Experience with advanced planning systems (APS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) is also required.
Strategic Sourcing
Proven track record of developing global sourcing strategies, negotiating complex contracts, and managing strategic supplier relationships to drive value and mitigate risk.
Leadership Competencies
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a diverse team. Must be a strategic thinker with the ability to translate high-level strategy into tactical execution.
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
Strong analytical capabilities and a data-driven approach to decision-making. Proven ability to solve complex problems and drive process improvements in a dynamic environment.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as a CSCP or CPIM from the ASCM (Association for Supply Chain Management) are highly desirable.
Communication
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to executive leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- Competitive Base Salary and Executive Performance Bonus Plan
- Long-Term Incentive Program (Equity/Stock Options)
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Generous 401(k) Retirement Plan with a Strong Company Match
- Substantial Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick Leave, and Paid Holidays
- Professional Development and Continuing Education Allowance
- Hybrid Work Model Providing Flexibility
- State-of-the-Art Office Facilities in the Minneapolis Area
- Employee Wellness Programs and Resources
- Relocation Assistance Package for Qualified Candidates
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative supply chain leader with the requisite experience in the medical device industry and are ready to make a lasting impact, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic accomplishments. JRG Partners is a leader in executive search, and you can learn more about our extensive experience in Supply Chain & Operations recruitment on our website.
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, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
