Role Overview for Director of Supply Chain (Mfg.)
JRG Partners, a premier HR recruitment firm specializing in strategic placements, is proud to partner with a trailblazing leader in the manufacturing sector. Our client, renowned for its innovative products and commitment to operational excellence, is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Supply Chain (Manufacturing). This is a pivotal leadership role designed for an accomplished professional ready to redefine supply chain efficiency and resilience in a complex, fast-paced global environment.
As the Director of Supply Chain, you will be the strategic architect behind the end-to-end flow of materials, information, and finances within the organization, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations or COO, you will be instrumental in shaping strategies that enhance agility, reduce costs, mitigate risks, and ensure seamless delivery, directly impacting profitability and customer satisfaction.
This role demands a leader who can blend strategic foresight with hands-on operational expertise, driving continuous improvement and fostering a culture of excellence across all supply chain functions. You will lead a diverse team of supply chain professionals, inspiring them to achieve ambitious goals and embrace innovation. This is more than a management position; it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on a company’s operational backbone and competitive advantage.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Supply Chain (Mfg.)
Strategic Supply Chain Leadership & Development:
Formulate, implement, and continuously refine a comprehensive global supply chain strategy aligned with the company’s overall business objectives, growth targets, and market demands.
Identify and evaluate emerging trends, technologies, and modern Supply Chain Management best practices to ensure the organization maintains a competitive edge and operational superiority.
Develop and manage the supply chain budget, ensuring optimal resource allocation and cost-effectiveness across all functions.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) Excellence:
Lead and champion the integrated S&OP process, ensuring robust demand forecasting, supply planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling to meet customer service levels while managing working capital efficiently.
Facilitate cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Production, and Finance to achieve consensus on operational plans and proactively address potential imbalances.
Strategic Procurement & Supplier Relationship Management:
Oversee all procurement activities, including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, vendor selection, and performance management for direct and indirect materials and services.
Develop and nurture strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers, fostering innovation, ensuring quality, and driving cost efficiencies through effective partnership programs.
Implement robust supplier risk management strategies to ensure continuity of supply and mitigate potential disruptions.
Logistics, Warehousing & Distribution Optimization:
Design, optimize, and manage the company’s global logistics network, encompassing inbound and outbound transportation, warehousing, and distribution centers.
Negotiate freight contracts, manage third-party logistics (3PL) providers, and implement strategies to reduce transportation costs while improving delivery speed and reliability.
Ensure efficient warehouse operations, inventory accuracy, and material flow through the adoption of best practices and technology.
Inventory Management & Working Capital Optimization:
Develop and implement inventory strategies across the entire supply chain to balance service levels with working capital efficiency, utilizing advanced inventory planning tools and methodologies.
Minimize obsolescence and spoilage, ensuring optimal stock levels for all product categories.
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence:
Drive a culture of continuous improvement throughout the supply chain, leveraging methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to identify and eliminate waste, improve processes, and enhance efficiency.
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for all supply chain functions, implementing corrective actions as needed to achieve targets.
Supply Chain Technology & Digital Transformation:
Evaluate, recommend, and oversee the implementation of advanced supply chain technologies, including ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), WMS, TMS, and advanced planning systems, to enhance visibility, automation, and decision-making capabilities.
Champion data analytics initiatives to transform raw data into actionable insights, driving strategic improvements.
Team Leadership & Development:
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team, fostering a collaborative, results-oriented environment.
Provide clear direction, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities to cultivate future leaders within the organization.
Risk Management & Resilience:
Proactively identify potential supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical, natural disaster, economic volatility) and develop robust mitigation strategies and contingency plans to ensure business continuity.
Build a resilient supply chain capable of adapting quickly to unforeseen challenges and market shifts.
Sustainability & Ethical Practices:
Integrate sustainability initiatives into supply chain operations, focusing on ethical sourcing, waste reduction, and environmentally responsible logistics practices.
Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and industry standards.
Requirements for the Director of Supply Chain (Mfg.)
Education:
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Logistics, or a related quantitative field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in Supply Chain) is highly preferred and will be a significant advantage.
Experience:
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership or Director-level role within a complex manufacturing environment. Experience in global supply chains is essential.
Technical Expertise:
Demonstrated expertise in all facets of supply chain, including strategic sourcing, procurement, S&OP, logistics, warehousing, inventory management, and demand planning.
Proven track record of implementing and optimizing ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) and other advanced planning and execution software.
Strong understanding and practical application of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement tools.
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting, with the ability to leverage insights for strategic decision-making.
Leadership & Soft Skills:
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
Superior communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels of the organization and with external partners.
Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, able to navigate complex challenges and make data-driven decisions.
Demonstrated change management skills, with the ability to lead organizational transformation initiatives.
Certifications:
Professional certifications such as CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional), CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management), or PMP (Project Management Professional) are highly desirable.
Travel:
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required to supplier sites, distribution centers, and other company locations.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your professional growth and personal well-being.
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary complemented by a performance-based bonus structure.
Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
Financial Security
A strong 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching.
Work-Life Balance
Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Professional Development
Significant investment in continuous learning, training, and career advancement opportunities.
Relocation Assistance
Available for qualified candidates.
Dynamic Culture
Be part of an innovative, collaborative, and supportive work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued. This role offers the unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company’s future success.
How to Apply
If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for optimizing manufacturing supply chains and a desire to drive significant impact, we invite you to connect with JRG Partners. We are committed to finding the best talent for our clients.
To apply for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments through our dedicated application portal.
Discover more about our expertise in this field by visiting our Supply Chain & Operations Practice Area.
