Role Overview for VP, Supply Chain Master Data Management (MDM) with a Food Producer – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, nationally recognized food producer in their search for a visionary Vice President of Supply Chain Master Data Management (MDM). This executive leadership role, based in their corporate headquarters in Indianapolis, IN, is a cornerstone of the company’s strategic initiative to transform its supply chain into a data-driven, agile, and highly efficient global operation. In an industry where speed, accuracy, and traceability are paramount, the integrity of master data is the foundation of success. This position offers a unique opportunity to build and lead a world-class MDM function from the ground up, directly influencing every facet of the supply chain, from procurement and manufacturing to logistics and customer fulfillment.
The successful candidate will be a strategic leader with a profound understanding of how high-quality master data underpins critical business processes and enables advanced analytics. You will be responsible for defining the vision, strategy, and roadmap for enterprise-wide supply chain data governance. This is not merely a technical role; it is a transformative business leadership position. You will champion the cultural shift towards treating data as a critical corporate asset, collaborating with C-suite executives and senior leaders across Operations, Finance, IT, and Commercial teams to ensure alignment and drive adoption. Your leadership will be instrumental in enhancing operational excellence, mitigating risk, ensuring regulatory compliance, and unlocking new opportunities for growth and profitability. If you are a passionate data evangelist with a proven track record of building and scaling MDM programs in a complex manufacturing environment, we invite you to apply for this career-defining opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Supply Chain Master Data Management (MDM) with a Food Producer – Indianapolis, IN
The VP of Supply Chain MDM will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, focusing on strategy, governance, technology, and leadership.
Strategic Vision and Leadership
- Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term vision and strategy for Supply Chain Master Data Management that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives.
- Establish the MDM organization as a center of excellence, providing thought leadership and strategic guidance on all aspects of data governance, quality, and architecture.
- Act as the primary advocate and champion for MDM across the enterprise, effectively communicating its value proposition to executive leadership and key stakeholders to secure buy-in and resources.
- Define and manage the MDM program budget, ensuring investments are aligned with strategic priorities and deliver a measurable return on investment.
Data Governance and Quality Framework
- Design, implement, and enforce a robust data governance framework, including the establishment of a Data Governance Council, clear roles and responsibilities (e.g., Data Owners, Data Stewards), and decision-making rights.
- Define and document enterprise-wide policies, standards, and procedures for critical supply chain data domains, including but not limited to Material, Vendor, Customer, and Product master data.
- Implement a comprehensive data quality program, including the definition of data quality metrics, the establishment of monitoring processes, and the execution of data cleansing and enrichment initiatives.
- Lead efforts to improve supply chain visibility and traceability through the standardization and syndication of accurate master data, which is critical for food safety and regulatory compliance (e.g., FSMA).
Team Development and Management
- Recruit, build, and mentor a high-performing team of MDM professionals, data stewards, and analysts.
- Foster a collaborative, innovative, and data-centric culture within the team and the broader organization.
- Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback and coaching, and manage the professional development of all team members.
- Structure the team to effectively support the needs of the business, ensuring proper coverage for data lifecycle management, project support, and continuous improvement.
Technology and Process Optimization
- Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of MDM technologies and platforms (e.g., SAP MDG, Informatica, Stibo Systems) that meet the company’s current and future needs.
- Partner closely with the IT department to define the MDM system architecture, ensure seamless integration with core enterprise systems (ERP, WMS, TMS), and oversee solution delivery.
- Drive the re-engineering of business processes related to the creation, maintenance, and consumption of master data to improve efficiency, accuracy, and control.
- Leverage master data to enable advanced analytics, support digital transformation initiatives, and drive tangible improvements in key supply chain KPIs such as forecast accuracy, on-time in-full (OTIF) delivery, and inventory turnover.
Requirements for the VP, Supply Chain Master Data Management (MDM) with a Food Producer – Indianapolis, IN
We are seeking a seasoned executive with a unique blend of strategic acumen, deep technical expertise in data management, and exceptional leadership skills.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Information Systems, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, data management, or a related discipline, with at least 7-10 years in a significant leadership role overseeing large-scale data programs.
MDM Expertise
Demonstrated, in-depth expertise in the principles, practices, and technologies of Master Data Management. Proven experience designing and implementing successful, enterprise-scale MDM and data governance programs from the ground up.
Industry Background
Significant experience within the food and beverage, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or a similar complex manufacturing industry is essential. A deep understanding of the unique data challenges and regulatory requirements of the food industry is a major plus.
Technical Proficiency
Strong familiarity with major ERP systems (SAP is highly preferred) and dedicated MDM platforms. Solid understanding of data architecture, data modeling, and data integration concepts.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with a proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams. Must possess executive presence and the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels of the organization, from the C-suite to operational staff.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
A highly strategic thinker with the ability to connect data management initiatives to broader business goals. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a talent for translating complex data concepts into clear business language and actionable insights.
Change Management
Proven experience leading large-scale change management initiatives and fostering cultural shifts toward data-driven decision-making.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in the company’s long-term incentive plan (LTIP), including equity or stock options, to align your success with the company’s growth.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, as well as robust wellness programs.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) plan with a strong company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave policy to support a healthy work-life balance.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Professional Growth
A commitment to continuous learning with support for professional development, certifications, and executive coaching.
Additional Perks
Employee discounts on company products, access to corporate-sponsored events, and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. We understand the confidential nature of executive searches and all applications will be handled with the utmost discretion.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting exceptional talent with transformative opportunities. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit our Supply Chain and Operations Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a lasting impact with our client.
