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# VP, Supply Chain Strategy with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN


Role Overview for VP, Supply Chain Strategy with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly growing Food & Beverage company in their search for a visionary Vice President of Supply Chain Strategy. Based in the vibrant hub of Minneapolis, MN, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to architect and execute a world-class supply chain strategy that will serve as a cornerstone of the company’s future growth and competitive advantage. The ideal candidate is a transformative leader with a profound understanding of the complexities and nuances of the food and beverage industry, from farm-to-fork logistics to navigating intricate regulatory landscapes.
In this critical position, you will be responsible for the entire end-to-end supply chain ecosystem, including strategic sourcing, procurement, demand and supply planning, inventory management, logistics, warehousing, and distribution. You will not just manage the current operations; you will reinvent them. We are seeking a forward-thinking strategist who can anticipate market shifts, leverage cutting-edge technology, and implement sustainable practices to build a resilient, agile, and cost-effective supply chain.
You will lead a large, multi-disciplinary team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making. Your leadership will directly impact profitability, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation, making this a highly visible and impactful role within the organization. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for operational excellence and a proven track record of transforming supply chain functions into powerful growth engines, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Supply Chain Strategy with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
As the Vice President of Supply Chain Strategy, you will be entrusted with a broad range of responsibilities designed to optimize performance and drive strategic initiatives across the supply chain network. Your duties will be both strategic and operational, requiring a leader who can seamlessly transition between high-level planning and hands-on execution.
Strategic Vision & Leadership
Develop and implement a comprehensive, long-term supply chain strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives, growth targets, and customer expectations. Champion supply chain initiatives at the executive level and serve as the primary thought leader for all supply chain-related matters.
Network Design & Optimization
Continuously evaluate and optimize the company’s supply chain network, including manufacturing footprints, distribution center locations, and transportation routes, to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)
Lead the S&OP process to ensure tight alignment between demand forecasts, production capacity, and inventory levels. Drive cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to create a single, consensus-based operating plan.
Procurement & Strategic Sourcing
Oversee the procurement function, developing and executing sourcing strategies that ensure a reliable supply of high-quality raw materials and ingredients. Cultivate strong, strategic relationships with key suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and implement robust supplier performance management programs.
Inventory Management & Control
Implement best-in-class inventory management strategies to optimize stock levels across the network, minimize carrying costs, and reduce the risk of obsolescence, particularly for perishable goods. Utilize advanced analytical tools to improve inventory accuracy and turnover.
Logistics, Warehousing & Distribution
Direct all inbound and outbound logistics, including transportation management, warehouse operations, and final-mile delivery. Ensure compliance with all regulations governing food transportation and storage, including cold chain integrity and traceability.
Technology & Innovation
Drive the adoption of new technologies and digital solutions, such as advanced analytics, AI, machine learning, and automation, to enhance visibility, predictability, and efficiency throughout the supply chain. Oversee the optimization of ERP, WMS, and TMS systems.
Risk Management & Compliance
Develop and implement a comprehensive risk management framework to identify, assess, and mitigate potential disruptions to the supply chain. Ensure strict compliance with all food safety regulations (e.g., FSMA), quality standards, and ethical sourcing policies.
Team Development & Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain organization. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous learning. Set clear performance objectives and provide regular coaching and feedback to team members.
Financial Acumen & Performance Metrics
Develop and manage the annual supply chain budget, including capital expenditures. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure performance, drive improvements, and report on progress to the executive team.
Sustainability Initiatives
Champion and integrate sustainability practices into the supply chain, focusing on reducing carbon footprint, minimizing waste, and promoting responsible sourcing to align with corporate social responsibility goals.
Requirements for the VP, Supply Chain Strategy with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
The successful candidate will be a seasoned and accomplished supply chain executive with a demonstrated history of success within the food and beverage sector. A combination of strategic prowess, operational expertise, and inspirational leadership is essential for this role.
Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (Director level or above) overseeing a complex, end-to-end supply chain.
Industry Expertise
Deep and direct experience within the Food & Beverage, CPG, or a related industry is mandatory. A thorough understanding of cold chain logistics, food safety regulations, traceability requirements, and managing perishable inventories is required.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. An MBA or a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.
Strategic & Analytical Skills
Proven ability to develop and execute complex business strategies. Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a talent for interpreting complex data and making data-driven decisions.
Leadership & Influence
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire large, diverse teams. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus among senior executives, peers, and external partners.
Technical Proficiency
Extensive experience with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), as well as advanced planning systems (APS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS or other credentials from organizations like the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) are highly desirable.
Change Management
A proven track record of leading significant change initiatives and business transformations within a supply chain context.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top executive talent. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive six-figure base salary commensurate with experience.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual performance-based bonus potential tied to individual and company performance.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in the company’s equity or long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, RSUs).
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive vacation, holiday, and sick leave policy.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate moving to the Minneapolis area.
Professional Development
Support for continuing education, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
Additional Perks
Employee product discounts, wellness programs, and other corporate benefits.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to manage this executive search. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications. We are committed to a transparent and respectful recruitment process for all candidates.
Interested candidates should apply directly through our portal. To learn more about our expertise in this field and to view other opportunities, please visit the JRG Partners’ Supply Chain & Logistics practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application.