Job Summary
The Head of Supply Chain is responsible for leading and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain function, including procurement, planning, inventory, warehousing, logistics, and distribution. The role ensures the timely availability of materials, cost-effective operations, and efficient product delivery to support manufacturing, retail, and export businesses while driving operational excellence, supplier performance, and continuous process improvement.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop and execute a robust end-to-end supply chain strategy to support manufacturing, retail, and export operations in line with the company’s sales growth and expansion goals.
• Oversee all supply chain functions, including procurement, material planning, production coordination, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution/logistics.
• Ensure timely procurement of raw materials, packaging, and indirect items through strategic sourcing, price negotiation, and vendor management.
• Optimize inventory levels of raw, packaging, semi-finished, and finished goods to ensure smooth production while minimizing holding costs and waste.
• Coordinate with production, sales, QA, R&D, and retail operations teams to align material planning with sales forecasts and seasonal demand spikes (e.g., Ramadan, Eid, winter/summer ranges).
• Monitor supplier performance, maintain quality assurance standards, and address delays or deviations through corrective measures.
• Lead the implementation of ERP-based supply chain modules for real-time visibility and data-driven decision-making.
• Improve warehouse and logistics operations to ensure on-time, in-full (OTIF) deliveries to retail outlets and external clients.
• Identify bottlenecks or risks in the supply chain and implement continuous improvement initiatives for process optimization and cost control.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, health, and hygiene standards, including traceability, FIFO practices, and vendor certifications (e.g., Halal, ISO).
• Manage and build a high-performing supply chain team with clear KPIs, SOPs, and accountability frameworks.
• Prepare and present periodic reports on supply chain performance, cost savings, inventory status, and forecast accuracy to senior management.
• Ensure business continuity planning by maintaining adequate safety stock levels and alternate sourcing strategies.
• Oversee cold chain logistics and handling of temperature-sensitive food items to ensure freshness and compliance.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives and vendor development for cost-effective and high-quality procurement.
• Perform any other ad-hoc duties assigned by management to support the department’s objectives and overall business goals.
Qualification & Experience
• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• 12–15 years of progressive experience in Supply Chain with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in the food manufacturing, FMCG/Bakery, or retail industry is essential.
• Strong expertise in strategic sourcing, demand planning, inventory optimization, warehouse management, distribution, and supplier relationship management.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems and supply chain analytics.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage large-scale supply chain operations, and drive continuous improvement initiatives resulting in measurable cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations, cold chain management, Halal compliance, FIFO practices, and quality assurance requirements.