Head of Supply Chain

Overview:

As the Head of Supply Chain our client, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of goods from suppliers to customers within our client’s food manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, logistics, inventory management, and distribution. Your strategic leadership will be crucial in driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing costs, and maintaining high standards of quality and customer service.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement supply chain strategies to meet business objectives and support company growth plans.
• Lead procurement activities, including supplier selection, negotiation, and contract management, to ensure cost-effective sourcing of raw materials and packaging components.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, and finance, to forecast demand and develop production plans that align with sales forecasts and inventory targets.
• Optimise inventory levels across multiple warehouses and production facilities to minimize stockouts and excess inventory while maximizing inventory turns.
• Implement robust logistics and distribution processes to ensure timely delivery of products to customers while minimizing transportation costs.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce lead times, and streamline processes.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to supply chain performance, such as on-time delivery, inventory accuracy, and supplier performance, and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards related to food safety, quality, and environmental sustainability.
• Develop and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Graduate level with 15 years extensive experience of managing supply chain functions in a complex FMCG business.
• Directing and influencing the mission, vision, and values through supporting performance metrics, coaching, and mentoring the supply chain team.
• Previous people management skills incorporating a range of business activities.
• Strong numeric and verbal reasoning skills / IT literate.
• Good attention to detail and excellent communicator.
• Ability to make challenging decisions and to take a calm and measured approach in a pressurised environment.
• Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Previous experience of MRP / WMS / ERP / Integrated Commercial Forecasting systems.
• Operational FMCG procurement and experience of forecasting for manufacturing experience
• Proven experience of creating strong vendor / 3rd party warehousing & logistics relationship management systems.