Role Overview for Director, Supply Chain Systems with a Food Manufacturer – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly growing food manufacturer in their search for a visionary and strategic Director of Supply Chain Systems. Based in Indianapolis, IN, this is a critical leadership position responsible for architecting and executing the technology roadmap that will power the next generation of our client’s supply chain. This is not just a role about maintaining systems; it’s about transformation. You will be the central figure bridging the gap between complex operational needs and cutting-edge technological solutions, ensuring our client’s supply chain is a key competitive advantage in a dynamic market.
The successful candidate will be a thought leader with a deep understanding of both supply chain principles and enterprise systems architecture. You will inherit a capable team and a set of existing systems, but your primary mandate is to evaluate, innovate, and implement a cohesive technology stack that enhances visibility, drives efficiency, and supports aggressive growth targets.
You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of supply chain applications, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), demand planning, and procurement platforms. Your work will directly impact everything from procurement and production planning to warehousing, logistics, and final delivery, ensuring product integrity and customer satisfaction in the highly regulated food manufacturing industry.
This role requires a unique blend of strategic foresight, technical expertise, and exceptional leadership. You will collaborate extensively with executive leadership, including the COO, CIO, and VPs of Operations and Finance, to ensure that system strategies are perfectly aligned with overarching business objectives. You will champion a data-driven culture, leveraging analytics and business intelligence to unlock insights, optimize performance, and predict future challenges. If you are a transformative leader passionate about leveraging technology to build a world-class supply chain, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Supply Chain Systems with a Food Manufacturer – Indianapolis, IN
Strategic Technology Roadmap Development
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, multi-year strategic roadmap for all supply chain systems. This includes evaluating emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain for potential application and competitive advantage.
System Implementation and Optimization
Lead the full lifecycle of system projects, from business case development and vendor selection to implementation, integration, and post-launch optimization. Oversee major projects related to ERP upgrades, WMS rollouts, and TMS enhancements.
Process Improvement and Operational Excellence
Act as a change agent, partnering with operational leaders to analyze current supply chain processes, identify inefficiencies, and re-engineer workflows through technology. Champion continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
Team Leadership and Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of supply chain systems analysts, project managers, and support staff. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and support professional growth.
Data Governance and Analytics
Establish and enforce data governance standards to ensure data integrity across all supply chain systems. Spearhead the development of advanced analytics, dashboards, and KPIs to provide real-time visibility and actionable insights into supply chain performance.
Vendor and Stakeholder Management
Cultivate and manage strong relationships with software vendors, implementation partners, and consultants to ensure optimal service and value. Serve as the primary liaison between the Supply Chain function and the IT department, ensuring seamless collaboration and alignment on priorities.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets for supply chain systems. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. Allocate resources effectively to meet strategic objectives.
Risk Mitigation and Compliance
Ensure all supply chain systems and processes support industry regulations, particularly those related to food safety and traceability (e.g., FSMA). Develop and maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans for critical systems.
Requirements for the Director, Supply Chain Systems with a Food Manufacturer – Indianapolis, IN
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in supply chain management and/or IT roles, with at least 7 years in a leadership capacity overseeing supply chain systems and technology.
Industry Expertise
Direct experience in a manufacturing environment is required. Experience within the food & beverage, CPG, or another highly regulated, fast-moving industry is strongly preferred. Understanding of challenges like shelf-life management, lot traceability, and quality assurance is critical.
Technical Acumen
- Proven hands-on experience with the selection and implementation of Tier 1 or Tier 2 ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Infor).
- Expert-level knowledge of modern Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
- Demonstrated experience with demand planning, inventory optimization, and procurement software suites.
- Strong understanding of systems integration, data warehousing, and business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with a proven track record of building and managing successful teams. Ability to influence and align stakeholders across various functions and levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the executive suite.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
Must be a strategic thinker who can connect technology solutions to business outcomes. Superior analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable strategies.
Project Management Excellence
Extensive experience managing large-scale, complex technology projects. PMP or similar project management certification is a plus.
Communication Skills
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Excellent medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
Generous paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and flexible work arrangements to support a healthy balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your growth with opportunities for continued education, certifications, and tuition reimbursement.
Wellness Programs
Company-sponsored wellness initiatives, including gym membership subsidies and health challenges.
Additional Perks
Employee assistance program (EAP), life and disability insurance, and generous employee discounts on company products.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. To be considered for this pivotal leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic vision for supply chain systems. We are looking for a candidate who is ready to drive significant change and innovation.
Our team of supply chain and logistics recruiting experts will review all applications and contact qualified candidates directly for an initial discussion. We are committed to a transparent and efficient interview process.
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.
