Job SummaryThe Senior Director, Global Logistics, Warehousing & Distribution is an enterprise-level executive responsible for the design, governance, and execution of West's global distribution and logistics strategy across all regions and businesses.
This role ensures compliant, resilient, and cost-effective movement of pharmaceutical packaging components, drug delivery systems, and high-value containment products across a global network of manufacturing plants, distribution centers, 3PL partners, and customer sites..
The leader will architect and lead a next-generation global distribution network that supports:
- Regulated pharmaceutical and biologics customers
- Specialty handling requirements
- Margin expansion and working capital optimization
- Risk mitigation and business continuity
- Customer experience improvements through OTIF and lead time
This role is a key member of the Global Supply Chain Leadership Team. #LI-CT1
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesGlobal Logistics & Distribution Strategy- Define and execute a multi-year global logistics and distribution strategy aligned to West's enterprise growth objectives.
- Design the future-state global warehouse and distribution network, including:
- Site footprint optimization
- Regional DC strategy
- 3PL governance model
- Automation roadmap
- Develop global transportation strategy (ocean, air, ground, expedited).
- Establish global service level agreements (SLAs) and customer delivery performance standards.
- Architect distribution capability to support new product introductions and platform expansion
Regulatory & Quality Compliance- Ensure full compliance with:
- FDA regulations
- ISO standards
- GDP / GMP / GSP requirements
- International trade and customs regulations
- Maintain inspection readiness for global regulatory audits.
- Ensure traceability and product integrity across distribution channels.
Network Optimization & Digital Transformation- Lead global WMS, TMS, and ERP integration initiatives.
- Deploy advanced visibility and analytics tools to improve:
- OTIF (On-Time-In-Full)
- Inventory accuracy
- Cost-to-serve
- Standardize warehouse automation strategy across regions
- Implement predictive analytics and risk modeling to improve resilience.
Integrated Business Planning & Cross-Functional Alignment- Integrate logistics into:
- IBP
- S&OP
- Long-Range Strategic Financial Planning
- Align with:
- Commercial
- Quality
- Regulatory
- Manufacturing
- Procurement
- Finance
Risk Management and Business Continuity- Develop global logistics risk mitigation strategies, including:
- Dual sourcing and alternate routing
- Geopolitical risk planning
- Trade disruption contingency planning
- Lead enterprise-level business continuity planning for distribution operations.
- Oversee crisis management protocols related to logistics interruptions.
Financial & Performance Accountability- Own global logistics P&L elements, including:
- Freight spend
- Warehousing costs
- Inventory carrying costs
- Drive working capital improvement through inventory strategy and network design.
- Develop KPI dashboards aligned to executive-level reporting.
- Present global supply risk and performance updates to Executive Leadership.
Leadership & Organizational Development- Build and lead a high-performing global logistics organization.
- Influence global network of site shipping and logistics teams and 3PLs to meet objectives
- Oversee regional logistics directors and multi-site distribution teams
- Lead change management initiatives across global operations
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement (Lean, Six Sigma)
Education- Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain, Engineering or Business related field - Required
- MBA or Master's in Supply Chain, Business, or related field - Preferred
Work Experience- 12+ years supply chain experience - Required
- 5+ years leadership experience - Required
- Direct experience managing global distribution centers, transportation strategy, 3PL partnerships, ERP/WMS/TMS implementations
Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities- Executive presence and enterprise influence capability
- Advanced financial and commercial acumen
- Deep expertise in global supply chain strategy and risk governance
- Demonstrated leadership of global, multi-regional teams
- Proven regulatory compliance leadership
- Strong negotiation and stakeholder management capability
Additional Requirements- Able to routinely use standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers and filing systems.
- Make independent and sound judgments.
- Multitask, work under time constraints, problem solve, and prioritize.
- Excellent communicator with ability to maintain confidentiality and resolve conflicts and ambiguity.
- Use written and verbal communication skills effectively.
- Read and interpret data, information and documents to analyze and solve problems.
- Learn and apply new information and new skills.
- Able to comply with the company's safety and quality policies at all times.
Travel Requirements30%: Up to 78 business days per year
Physical RequirementsSedentary-Exerting up to 10lbs/4kgs of force occasionally, and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
What We OfferThis is a hybrid position requiring the team member to be onsite a minimum of 3 days per week
Recognition & Rewards:Performance-based bonuses, service recognition, and employee appreciation initiatives celebrate dedication and impact.
Continuous Learning & Development: Opportunities for professional growth through training programs, tuition assistance, leadership development, and skill-certification initiatives.
Community Involvement: West encourages volunteerism through its West without Borders initiative and other charitable programs that make a difference in local communities.
Global Career Opportunities: With facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, employees have opportunities for international exposure and cross-functional collaboration.
