The Supply Chain Director will be a pivotal leader responsible for developing and executing the company's overall supply chain strategy. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in optimizing logistics, inventory management, procurement, and demand planning within a complex manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be a power user of SAP ERP systems, utilizing its full capabilities to drive visibility, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making across the entire supply chain. A deep understanding of manufacturing processes is essential for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Planning:
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Develop and implement a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with the company's financial and operational goals.
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Lead the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process to balance demand and supply, ensuring high service levels and optimal inventory health.
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Drive initiatives to enhance supply chain resilience, mitigate risks, and reduce total landed cost.
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Evaluate and implement new technologies and processes to improve supply chain performance.
Operational Excellence:
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Oversee all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, planning, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
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Manage and optimize inventory levels (raw materials, WIP, and finished goods) to minimize carrying costs while preventing stockouts.
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Lead the procurement and supplier management function, focusing on total cost of ownership, quality, and supplier performance.
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Ensure seamless integration between manufacturing schedules, material requirements, and customer delivery commitments.
SAP Systems & Data Analytics:
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Act as the primary business owner for the SAP Supply Chain Management (SCM) modules (MM, PP, SD, WM/IM).
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Utilize SAP to its full potential for master data management, MRP, production planning, and reporting.
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Leverage SAP and other analytics tools to generate actionable insights, track KPIs, and identify areas for improvement.
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Champion SAP best practices and lead or support future enhancements and training for the supply chain team.
Team Management & Development:
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Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team.
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Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability.
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Set clear performance objectives and provide regular feedback to team members.
Qualifications & Experience Required:
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Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
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10+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Director, Senior Manager).
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Extensive, hands-on experience using SAP ERP systems in a supply chain context (modules such as MM, PP, SD, and WM/IM).
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Proven background in a manufacturing environment with a deep understanding of production planning, shop floor control, and material flow.
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Demonstrated success in developing and executing supply chain strategies that resulted in significant cost savings and service level improvements.
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Strong expertise in demand planning, inventory management, logistics, and international trade.
Preferred (A Plus):
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Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MSc in Supply Chain).
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APICS CPIM or CSCP certification.
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Experience with SAP S/4HANA implementation or migration.
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Experience in [Specific Industry, e.g., FDA-regulated, automotive, etc.] manufacturing.
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Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma certification.
Competencies & Skills
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Strategic Thinker:
Ability to see the big picture and translate strategy into actionable plans.
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Analytical & Data-Driven:
Expert in using data from SAP and other systems to solve complex problems.
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Excellent Leadership & Communication:
Inspires teams and effectively communicates with all levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the C-suite.
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Results-Oriented:
Driven to achieve and exceed key performance indicators (KPIs).
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Change Agent:
Ability to lead and manage change in a dynamic environment.
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Strong Negotiator:
Skilled in supplier and carrier contract negotiations.
What We Offer
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A competitive salary and performance-based bonus.
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Comprehensive benefits package
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Opportunity to lead and transform the supply chain for a respected manufacturer.
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A collaborative and supportive work environment.
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Professional development and career growth opportunities.