JOB SUMMARY:The Director of Supply Chain is responsible for leading and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain within a food ingredients manufacturing organization. This role oversees demand and production planning, procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and logistics to ensure reliable supply, cost efficiency, and compliance with food safety standards. The Director drives strategic initiatives, improves service levels, and aligns supply chain operations with overall business objectives.
TYPICAL JOB DUTIES:Strategic Leadership- Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with company growth, cost, and service objectives
- Lead supply chain transformation initiatives, including process optimization, digital tools, and network design
- Establish and monitor KPIs to drive performance and continuous improvement
- Partner with executive leadership on strategic planning and business decisions
Demand Planning Leadership- Oversee demand planning and forecasting processes to ensure accuracy and alignment with market demand
- Balance demand, supply, and capacity to meet customer service and financial targets
- Drive improvements in forecast accuracy and responsiveness
Procurement & Supplier Strategy- Develop sourcing strategies for raw materials and packaging
- Lead supplier selection, negotiation, and performance management
- Mitigate supply risks and manage commodity pricing volatility
- Ensure supplier compliance with food safety and regulatory requirements
Manufacturing & Inventory Management- Align production planning with demand and inventory strategy
- Oversee inventory control for raw materials, WIP, and finished goods
- Optimize inventory levels and safety stock
- Reduce waste, obsolescence, and stockouts-particularly in shelf-life-sensitive ingredients and finished goods.
Logistics - Manage warehousing and transportation networks
- Optimize freight costs, routes, and carrier performance
- Ensure on-time, in-full (OTIF) delivery to customers
- Evaluate and improve third-party logistics (3PL) partnerships as needed
Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance- Ensure supply chain operations meet all applicable food safety standards, including:
- GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices)
- HACCP and FSMA requirements
- Traceability and lot control compliance
- Maintain audit readiness and oversee supply chain-related documentation
- Collaborate with Quality to ensure supplier and material compliance
Data, Systems & Process Excellence- Oversee Supply Chain ERP and planning systems
- Ensure data integrity across supply chain functions (lead times, BOMs, inventory parameters)
- Leverage analytics to drive decision-making and performance improvements
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Partner with Operations, Quality, Sales, Finance, and R&D teams
- Support new product development and commercialization efforts
- Communicate supply chain risks and mitigation strategies
- Align supply chain decisions with financial goals and customer expectations
Leadership & Talent Development- Lead, develop, and mentor a high-performing supply chain team
- Build organizational capability in planning, procurement, and logistics
- Establish clear performance expectations and accountability
- Foster a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and safety
Other- Adhere to all government and company safety, sanitation and GMP policies and regulations. Adhere to Food Safety, Quality and SQF Codes.
- Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
REQUIREMENTS:- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field required
- MBA or advanced degree preferred
- 10-15+ years of progressive supply chain experience in manufacturing
- 5+ years in a senior leadership role managing multiple supply chain functions
- Experience in food, beverage, or ingredient manufacturing strongly preferred
- Expertise with ERP/MRP systems
- Strong analytical and financial acumen
- Experience with demand planning and forecasting tools
- Knowledge of supply chain optimization and modeling tools
- Deep understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes
- Familiarity with global sourcing, logistics, and trade compliance
- Change management and continuous improvement mindset
- Executive communication and stakeholder influence
