Director of Supply Chain

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Description

The Director of Supply Chain is responsible for leading and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain function for a manufacturing organization, including purchasing, production planning, inventory management, logistics, supplier management and performance, and the overall supply chain strategy. This role ensures the timely, cost-effective, and high-quality flow of materials to support manufacturing operations while aligning supply chain strategy with business goals, customer requirements, and financial targets.

The Director leads the Supply Chain team and partners cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Finance, Product Development, Marketing, and others to drive operational excellence, cost savings, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement.

Supply Chain Strategy & Leadership

• Develop, document, and execute supply chain strategies that support production goals, customer demand, and long-term business objectives
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Supply Chain team and broader supply chain function
• Define KPIs, analyze data, implement process improvements, and manage/mitigate risks for continuous supply chain improvement.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
• Provide single-point accountability for the Supply Chain function ensuring clear, aligned communication across stakeholders.

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Oversee purchasing activities, ensuring uninterrupted material supply for manufacturing operations
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to achieve cost, quality, and delivery objectives
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships; manage supplier expectations, performance, risk, and compliance
• Identify and implement cost reduction, sourcing, and value-engineering opportunities

Manufacturing & Operations Support

• Partner with Manufacturing to align production schedules with material availability
• Ensure optimal inventory levels to support production while minimizing excess and obsolescence
• Address supply constraints or disruptions and lead mitigation and recovery efforts

Financial & Business Acumen

• Manage supply chain budgets and contribute to forecasting and financial planning processes
• Analyze cost drivers, make data-driven sourcing and make/buy decisions, and support margin improvement initiatives
• Ensure purchasing decisions align with financial controls and company policies

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Product Development, R&D, Marketing, and Sales on new product introductions, material specifications, and supplier qualification
• Partner with Quality to ensure supplier compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements
• Work closely with Finance on inventory valuation, cost of goods sold (COGS), and working capital optimization

Systems, Data & Process Improvement

• Leverage ERP/MRP systems and supply chain analytics to drive efficiency and visibility
• Standardize and improve procurement and supply chain processes across the organization
• Lead change management related to new systems, suppliers, or operating models

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive supply chain experience, including multi-plant or complex operations.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience, including managing a purchasing or procurement team.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and cost-reduction expertise.
• Exposure to global sourcing and international suppliers required.
• Demonstrated experience with ERP/MRP systems.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence at multiple organization levels.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and/or other continuous improvement methodologies a plus.
• Strategic thinking with strong execution capability
• Customer-centric mindset (internal and external customers)
• Data-driven decision-making and strong financial acumen
• Collaborative leadership style with a focus on talent development
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic manufacturing environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout the facility, including production areas, warehouses, and administrative spaces.
• Ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods while overseeing operations.
• Ability to lift up to 25-35 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and industrial conditions.
• Ability to travel occasionally; less than 15% of time.