Role Overview for Director of Supply Chain (Retail)
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in high-impact leadership roles, is actively seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Supply Chain (Retail). This critical leadership position offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic retail organization’s end-to-end supply chain operations, directly impacting customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and profitability.
As the retail landscape continues its rapid evolution, driven by e-commerce expansion, evolving consumer expectations, and global complexities, the need for agile, innovative, and resilient supply chains has never been more pronounced. This role is not merely about managing logistics; it’s about pioneering strategic initiatives that integrate advanced technologies, optimize global networks, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing and executing comprehensive supply chain strategies that support ambitious business growth objectives across various retail channels, including brick-and-mortar, online, and omnichannel platforms. This includes overseeing all facets from procurement and inventory management to warehousing, logistics, and last-mile delivery.
You will be expected to leverage deep industry knowledge, analytical prowess, and exceptional leadership skills to identify inefficiencies, implement best practices, and drive significant cost savings while maintaining or enhancing service levels. This position demands a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of leading cross-functional teams, negotiating with key stakeholders, and navigating the complexities of a fast-paced retail environment.
Reporting to a senior executive, the Director of Supply Chain (Retail) will play a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic planning process, ensuring that supply chain capabilities are aligned with overall corporate goals. You will be responsible for building, mentoring, and developing a high-performing team, fostering an environment of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
This is a unique chance to make a tangible impact on a company’s competitive advantage, ensuring products are available where and when customers want them, efficiently and sustainably. If you are a seasoned supply chain leader with a proven track record in the retail sector, passionate about innovation and operational excellence, JRG Partners invites you to explore this exceptional career opportunity.
We are searching for an individual who thrives in a challenging environment, possesses an entrepreneurial spirit, and is committed to driving measurable results. This role is designed for a leader who can not only envision the future of retail supply chain but also possesses the practical experience and determination to make that vision a reality. Join a company that values innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity, and lead their supply chain into a new era of efficiency and responsiveness.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Supply Chain (Retail)
Strategic Planning & Vision
Develop, implement, and continuously refine a long-term supply chain strategy aligned with the company’s overall retail business objectives, growth targets, and customer experience goals. This includes forecasting market trends, assessing technological advancements, and identifying strategic opportunities for competitive advantage.
End-to-End Operations Management
Oversee and optimize all aspects of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing and procurement to manufacturing, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and last-mile delivery, ensuring seamless integration and operational excellence across all touchpoints for both e-commerce and physical retail.
Inventory Optimization
Implement advanced inventory planning and management strategies to balance service levels with working capital efficiency. This involves demand forecasting, safety stock optimization, SKU rationalization, and managing returns to minimize obsolescence and maximize product availability.
Logistics & Distribution Network Design
Design, manage, and optimize the company’s domestic and international logistics and distribution network. Evaluate and select third-party logistics (3PL) providers, negotiate contracts, and establish performance metrics to ensure cost-effective and timely delivery.
Procurement & Vendor Management
Lead procurement strategies, including sourcing, negotiation, and management of supplier relationships. Develop robust supplier performance management programs to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with ethical and sustainability standards.
Technology & Digital Transformation
Champion the adoption and integration of supply chain technologies such as ERP, WMS, TMS, advanced analytics, AI, and automation to enhance visibility, improve decision-making, and drive operational efficiencies. Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team. Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, collaboration, and professional growth, empowering team members to achieve their full potential.
Budget Management & Cost Control
Develop and manage the supply chain budget, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency gains without compromising service quality or strategic objectives. Implement robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms.
Risk Management & Resilience
Identify potential supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical, natural disaster, supplier failure, cybersecurity) and develop mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity and resilience. Establish contingency plans and crisis management protocols.
Performance Measurement & Reporting
Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for all supply chain functions. Monitor, analyze, and report on supply chain performance against established benchmarks, providing actionable insights to senior leadership. Drive data-driven decision-making.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with sales, marketing, merchandising, finance, IT, and product development teams to ensure alignment of supply chain activities with overall business goals and customer expectations. Facilitate effective communication and problem-solving across departments.
Sustainability & Ethical Practices
Lead initiatives to integrate sustainability and ethical practices throughout the supply chain, focusing on environmental impact reduction, fair labor practices, and responsible sourcing. Adherence to modern supply chain principles is paramount for long-term success.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure all supply chain operations comply with relevant domestic and international laws, regulations, and trade compliance requirements.
Requirements for the Director of Supply Chain (Retail)
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Research, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is highly preferred. Professional certifications (e.g., CSCP, CPIM) are a significant plus.
Experience
Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Director, Senior Manager) specifically within the retail sector. Experience with both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce supply chains is essential.
Retail Industry Expertise
Deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the retail supply chain, including seasonal demand fluctuations, omnichannel fulfillment, last-mile delivery complexities, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) models.
Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to develop and execute complex supply chain strategies that drive business growth and operational excellence. Demonstrated capability in long-range planning and forecasting.
Operational Excellence
Strong track record of optimizing supply chain processes, implementing lean principles, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that result in measurable cost savings and service level enhancements.
Technological Proficiency
Extensive experience with modern supply chain technologies and systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Blue Yonder, Manhattan Associates, JDA/Kinaxis). Familiarity with advanced analytics, AI/ML applications in supply chain, and automation is highly desirable.
Leadership & Team Building
Exceptional leadership skills with a proven ability to attract, develop, motivate, and manage high-performing teams in a dynamic environment. Experience leading diverse, cross-functional teams.
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
Superior analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions. Proficient in financial analysis and budget management.
Communication & Negotiation
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of presenting complex information clearly and persuasively to all levels of the organization, including executive leadership. Strong negotiation skills with vendors and 3PL providers.
Adaptability & Resilience
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing business needs and market conditions.
Global Perspective
Experience with international logistics, global sourcing, and managing supply chains across different geographical regions is a significant asset.
Travel
Ability to travel as needed to vendor sites, distribution centers, and other company locations.
Benefits & Perks Offered
JRG Partners understands that attracting top-tier talent requires a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. For the Director of Supply Chain (Retail) role, we partner with our clients to ensure an attractive compensation structure that reflects the strategic importance of this position. The benefits and perks typically include:
Highly Competitive Salary
A base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards for a senior leadership role.
Performance-Based Bonus & Incentives
Eligibility for annual performance bonuses tied to individual and company performance metrics.
Equity/Stock Options
Potential for equity participation or stock options, aligning your success with the company’s long-term growth.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness Package
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, often including wellness programs and health savings accounts (HSA).
Retirement Savings Plan
Generous 401(k) or similar retirement plan with company matching contributions to support your financial future.
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Ample vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Opportunities for continuous learning, executive education, industry conference attendance, and professional certification support.
Relocation Assistance
For exceptional candidates requiring relocation, comprehensive assistance packages may be available.
Employee Discounts
Significant discounts on company products and services.
Dynamic Work Environment
A collaborative, innovative, and supportive culture that values diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being.
How to Apply
If you are a highly qualified and experienced Director of Supply Chain (Retail) looking for a transformative leadership opportunity with a forward-thinking organization, JRG Partners invites you to apply. We are committed to connecting exceptional talent with leading companies that are shaping the future of their industries.
Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience, leadership philosophy, and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. In your cover letter, highlight specific achievements in retail supply chain optimization, technological implementation, and team leadership.
Apply directly through our portal or by sending your application to [Email Address]. For more insights into our executive search process and how we empower supply chain leaders, please visit our dedicated practice area page: JRG Partners Supply Chain Recruitment. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how your expertise can drive success in this pivotal role.
JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
