Supply Chain Lead Jobs in New Jersey

Job Summary

The Director of Supply Chain is responsible for developing, implementing, and leading the organization's overall supply chain strategy to ensure operational efficiency, cost effectiveness, customer satisfaction, and business growth.

This role oversees all aspects of supply chain operations, including strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier management, demand planning, inventory management, production planning, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.

The Director will drive continuous improvement initiatives, optimize working capital, strengthen supplier partnerships, mitigate supply chain risks, and establish scalable processes that support the organization's short- and long-term strategic objectives.

The ideal candidate is a strategic and hands-on leader with strong analytical, financial, negotiation, operational, and people-management skills.

Key Responsibilities

1. Supply Chain Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with organizational objectives.
• Lead and oversee end-to-end supply chain operations.
• Establish policies, procedures, and performance standards to improve operational effectiveness.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce costs, and increase service levels.
• Collaborate with executive leadership on strategic planning, budgeting, and business growth initiatives.
• Build a high-performing supply chain organization through leadership, coaching, and talent development.

2. Procurement & Strategic Sourcing

• Direct procurement and strategic sourcing activities to ensure competitive pricing, quality, and reliable supply.
• Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships.
• Lead supplier negotiations, contract management, and vendor performance reviews.
• Establish supplier qualification, evaluation, and continuous improvement programs.
• Identify alternative sourcing strategies and opportunities to reduce supply risk.
• Ensure purchasing practices align with company policies and financial objectives.

3. Demand Planning & Inventory Management

• Oversee demand forecasting and supply planning processes.
• Partner with Sales, Finance, Manufacturing, and Operations to align demand and supply.
• Establish inventory strategies that balance customer service, availability, and working capital.
• Improve inventory accuracy and optimize inventory turns.
• Reduce excess, obsolete, and slow-moving inventory.
• Implement effective S&OP / Integrated Business Planning processes.

4. Logistics, Warehousing & Distribution

• Oversee inbound and outbound transportation, warehousing, and distribution activities.
• Optimize transportation costs, delivery performance, and freight management.
• Ensure efficient material flow throughout the supply chain.
• Establish operational standards for warehouse productivity, inventory accuracy, and order fulfillment.
• Identify opportunities to improve distribution networks and logistics partnerships.

5. Financial & Operational Performance

• Develop and manage the supply chain operating budget.
• Identify and execute cost-reduction and productivity improvement initiatives.
• Monitor supply chain spending, cost of goods, freight, inventory investment, and working capital.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Provide regular performance reporting and recommendations to executive leadership.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies.

6. Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Develop contingency plans for supplier disruptions, shortages, and transportation challenges.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory, safety, quality, and company requirements.
• Establish supplier risk assessment and business continuity programs

7. Systems, Technology & Process Improvement

o Lead the effective use and continuous improvement of ERP, MRP, procurement, and supply chain planning systems.

o Leverage data analytics and technology to improve visibility and decision-making.

o Standardize processes and improve data integrity across supply chain functions.

o Identify opportunities for automation and digital transformation.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

o Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Logistics, or a related field required.

o MBA or Master's degree preferred.

Professional Experience

o 8–12+ years of progressive experience in supply chain, procurement, operations, or logistics.

o 5+ years of leadership or management experience.

o Demonstrated experience leading multiple supply chain functions.

o Proven success in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, inventory optimization, and cost reduction.

o Experience with ERP/MRP systems and supply chain planning tools.

o Experience developing and managing departmental budgets and operational KPIs.

Preferred Certifications

o APICS CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional).

o APICS CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management).

o ISM CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management).

o Lean Six Sigma certification.

Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Supply chain management: 8 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person