Head of Supply Chain - Plant

Role & responsibilities

1. Supply Chain Strategy & Execution

• Develop and execute plant-level supply chain strategy aligned with business objectives.
  
• Drive demandsupply integration through S&OP processes.
  
• Build and monitor key supply chain KPIs (OTIF, inventory turns, plan adherence, etc.).
  

2. Procurement & Vendor Management

• Oversee procurement of raw materials, packaging materials, and indirect items.
  
• Build strong supplier relationships; negotiate contracts and ensure competitive pricing.
  
• Establish supplier performance metrics and ensure compliance with quality and delivery standards.
  

3. Production Planning & Scheduling

• Lead production planning, capacity management, and line balancing.
  
• Ensure high adherence to production plans and minimize downtime.
  
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations to improve throughput and productivity.
  

4. Inventory & Warehouse Management

• Optimize inventory levels to balance service levels and working capital.
  
• Implement robust warehouse processes including FIFO, FEFO, cycle counting, and storage optimization.
  
• Reduce slow-moving, obsolete, and non-moving stock.
  

5. Logistics & Distribution

• Manage inbound logistics, outbound dispatch, freight cost control, and route planning.
  
• Ensure on-time delivery (OTD/OTIF) and customer service excellence.
  
• Evaluate and manage logistics partners for performance and cost efficiency.
  

6. Quality, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to ISO, GMP, regulatory, and safety standards.
  
• Support QA and production teams to ensure product quality and reduce rejections.
  
• Lead audits (internal & external) and drive compliance culture.
  

7. Cost Leadership

• Drive cost-saving initiatives in procurement, warehousing, logistics, and packaging.
  
• Prepare and monitor annual supply chain budgets.
  
• Identify opportunities for automation and digital enablement.
  

8. Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead a diverse plant supply chain team across planning, sourcing, warehouse, and logistics.
  
• Coach, mentor, and develop team capabilities.
  
• Collaborate closely with sales, finance, operations, QA, R&D, and corporate supply chain.
  

9. Continuous Improvement

• Implement Lean, Kaizen, and Six Sigma methodologies to drive operational excellence.
  
• Standardize processes and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
  
• Reduce supply chain risks and improve overall plant resilience.
  

Key Skills & Competencies

• End-to-end supply chain expertise
  
• Advanced production & operations planning
  
• Vendor development & contract negotiation
  
• Inventory optimization & warehouse excellence
  
• Logistics & distribution management
  
• Strong analytical & data-driven mindset
  
• Leadership & people management
  
• Stakeholder collaboration
  
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  
• ERP proficiency (SAP, Oracle, or similar)
  
• Lean/Six Sigma certification (preferred)

Preferred candidate profile

Educational Qualifications

• B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, Production, Chemical, or MBA/PGDM in Supply Chain / Operations (preferred)

Experience: