Position Overview:
The Vice President of Supply Chain will lead the end-to-end supply chain strategy and execution for a large, multinational FMCG company based near Rotterdam. This executive position is responsible for ensuring the efficient and cost-effective flow of goods from suppliers to customers while upholding the company's high standards for quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The VP will develop and implement strategies that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and support the company's growth objectives. This role requires a dynamic leader who can drive innovation across a complex supply chain and foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
- Define and lead the supply chain strategy to align with overall business goals, ensuring seamless integration with other departments such as Sales, Marketing, and Finance.
- Drive long-term planning initiatives for supply chain innovation and capacity building, incorporating digitalization, automation, and sustainability.
- Develop and manage the annual supply chain budget, focusing on cost control, efficiency gains, and ROI improvements.
Operations & Logistics:
- Oversee all logistics functions, including inbound/outbound transportation, warehousing, and distribution, to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery across all markets.
- Optimize warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS) to improve supply chain visibility, reduce lead times, and minimize disruptions.
- Ensure compliance with all international logistics regulations, health and safety standards, and environmental protocols.
Procurement & Supplier Management:
- Lead the procurement team in sourcing high-quality raw materials and products, focusing on cost savings, quality assurance, and strategic supplier relationships.
- Establish risk management processes to secure reliable supplier partnerships and maintain continuity of supply.
- Oversee contract negotiations, vendor selection, and performance metrics to build strong supplier partnerships and negotiate favorable terms.
Demand Planning & Inventory Management:
- Develop and implement data-driven demand forecasting and inventory management strategies to ensure optimal stock levels and minimize stockouts and overages.
- Coordinate with Sales and Marketing to respond quickly to demand fluctuations and seasonal variations, enhancing responsiveness and customer satisfaction.
- Leverage advanced analytics to predict demand trends, reduce forecast errors, and increase forecast accuracy.
Manufacturing & Quality Control:
- Collaborate closely with the manufacturing team to align production capabilities with supply chain goals, focusing on reducing cycle times and improving operational efficiency.
- Implement robust quality control processes to ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and exceed customer expectations.
- Identify and resolve bottlenecks, ensuring flexibility and scalability to meet production targets.
Sustainability & Compliance:
- Champion sustainability initiatives across the supply chain, aiming to reduce waste, lower emissions, and implement sustainable sourcing practices.
- Maintain strict compliance with all local, national, and international regulations, including health and safety, environmental standards, and ethical sourcing.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team, promoting a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Foster collaboration across teams and departments to improve communication and alignment within the supply chain function.
- Establish KPIs and performance management systems to track progress, recognize achievements, and drive team success.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the FMCG sector.
- Proven experience managing complex, global supply chains with a track record of cost savings, efficiency improvements, and successful risk management.
- Deep understanding of modern supply chain technologies (e.g., WMS, TMS, ERP systems), data analytics, and automation.
- Strong negotiation skills and experience in contract management with third-party logistics providers, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
- Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility within the supply chain.
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to inspire, coach, and build a collaborative, performance-driven team.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in Dutch or other European languages is an advantage.
