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# Supply Chain Director (Import-Export) – Los Angeles


Role Overview for Supply Chain Director (Import-Export) – Los Angeles
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is partnering with a leading organization in Los Angeles to identify a highly strategic and results-oriented Supply Chain Director with deep expertise in Import-Export operations. This pivotal role offers an exceptional opportunity to shape and optimize global supply chain strategies, ensuring seamless flow of goods across international borders, mitigating risks, and driving operational excellence.
As the Supply Chain Director, you will be at the forefront of managing complex international logistics, trade compliance, and vendor relationships, directly impacting the company’s efficiency, profitability, and market position. This is more than just a management role; it’s a chance to lead, innovate, and implement best-in-class supply chain practices within a dynamic and fast-paced environment. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of import and export activities, from strategic planning and policy development to daily operational execution and continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of global trade regulations, customs procedures, and international freight forwarding, coupled with strong leadership capabilities to inspire and manage a diverse team. This role demands a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of global commerce while fostering a culture of compliance, efficiency, and innovation. If you are a seasoned supply chain professional ready to take on a challenging and rewarding leadership position in Los Angeles, we encourage you to explore this opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Supply Chain Director (Import-Export) – Los Angeles

Strategic Leadership & Planning: Develop and execute comprehensive import-export supply chain strategies aligned with overall business objectives, market demands, and global trade dynamics. Identify and implement strategic initiatives to enhance supply chain resilience, cost-effectiveness, and speed to market.
Global Logistics & Freight Management: Oversee all international freight forwarding activities, including selection and management of carriers, negotiation of freight rates, optimization of shipping routes, and ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of goods. Manage relationships with 3PLs, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other logistics partners.
Trade Compliance & Regulatory Adherence: Ensure strict adherence to all domestic and international trade regulations, customs laws, and import/export compliance requirements (e.g., C-TPAT, Incoterms, HTS classification, country of origin rules). Develop, implement, and maintain robust compliance programs and internal controls to mitigate risks and avoid penalties. Stay abreast of changes in global trade policies and their potential impact.
Vendor & Partner Management: Establish and nurture strong relationships with a global network of suppliers, manufacturers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other logistics service providers. Conduct regular performance reviews, negotiate contracts, and drive continuous improvement initiatives with partners to ensure service level agreements are met or exceeded.
Operational Excellence & Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and optimize import-export processes, workflows, and systems to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels. Implement best practices in inventory management, warehousing, and distribution specifically for international shipments. Drive the adoption of technology solutions to automate and streamline operations.
Risk Management & Mitigation: Identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks within the global supply chain, including geopolitical instability, natural disasters, supplier disruptions, and regulatory changes. Develop contingency plans to ensure business continuity and minimize disruptions to international trade flows.
Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of supply chain professionals focused on import-export operations. Foster a collaborative and results-driven environment, promoting professional growth and continuous learning. Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback and coaching.
Budget Management & Cost Control: Develop and manage the import-export logistics budget, identifying opportunities for cost reduction without compromising service quality or compliance. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to logistics costs, transit times, and compliance metrics.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with internal departments such as Sales, Marketing, Procurement, Finance, Legal, and Production to ensure alignment of supply chain activities with overall business goals. Act as the primary point of contact for all import-export related inquiries and initiatives.
Technology & Systems Utilization: Leverage Supply Chain Management (SCM) software, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, and other logistics technologies to enhance visibility, traceability, and efficiency across the global supply chain. Champion the implementation of new tools and systems to improve data analysis and decision-making.
Documentation & Reporting: Ensure accurate and timely preparation and submission of all required import/export documentation, including customs declarations, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and bills of lading. Generate comprehensive reports on supply chain performance, compliance status, and cost analysis for senior management.

Requirements for the Supply Chain Director (Import-Export) – Los Angeles

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Business, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) is highly preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 5-7 years specifically in a leadership role overseeing import-export operations for a complex, global organization. Demonstrated success in managing international logistics, customs compliance, and global trade regulations across multiple regions.
Global Trade Expertise: In-depth knowledge of U.S. and international customs regulations, export controls (e.g., ITAR, EAR), Incoterms, HTS classification, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and other relevant trade compliance frameworks. Proven ability to navigate complex global trade environments.
Logistics & Freight Management: Extensive experience working with freight forwarders, customs brokers, ocean carriers, air cargo providers, and other logistics service providers. Strong understanding of various modes of international transportation and their associated regulations and best practices.
Leadership & Management Skills: Proven track record of building, leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams. Exceptional ability to inspire, motivate, and manage diverse groups of professionals towards common goals. Strong change management capabilities.
Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Superior analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. Excellent problem-solving abilities to address intricate supply chain challenges and implement effective solutions.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including senior executives, external partners, and team members. Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
Technological Proficiency: Proficient in using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Supply Chain Management (SCM) software, Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and Customs Compliance software. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel for data analysis.
Certifications: Professional certifications such as APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional), ISM CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management), or relevant customs broker licenses are highly advantageous.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and develop long-term plans that align with business objectives and anticipate future market and regulatory changes.
Adaptability: Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and effectively manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.

Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values their employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being, professional growth, and financial security. This includes:

Competitive Compensation: A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based bonus structure.
Health & Wellness: Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and their families.
Retirement Planning: A generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions to help you build your financial future.
Paid Time Off: Ample vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional certifications, and career advancement within a growing organization.
Work-Life Balance: A supportive work environment that respects personal time and encourages employee well-being.
Collaborative Culture: Be part of a dynamic, innovative, and inclusive team where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Impactful Work: The chance to make a significant impact on global operations and contribute directly to the company’s success.
Location: Work in a vibrant Los Angeles setting, offering diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.

How to Apply
If you are a visionary Supply Chain Director with a strong background in import-export operations and are ready to lead a critical function for a dynamic organization in Los Angeles, we invite you to apply. JRG Partners is committed to connecting top-tier talent with exceptional opportunities.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications through our online portal. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your expertise can contribute to our client’s success. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit our Supply Chain & Logistics Practice Area page.