Global Supply Chain Director

  • Full-time
  • Grade: 15
  • Employee Group: Permanent
  • Global Region: Europe

Company Description

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group, is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports & borders, defense, and urban security. Our expertise is spread across 5 R&D centers, 21 Global Offices and 7 Manufacturing Sites with 3000 Brilliant minds globally contributing for over 40 years at the frontline which enables us to deliver the solutions needed to protect our society from any threat and illegal passage of explosives, prohibited weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals, and narcotics. Every minute of every day, our technology and talented team members help to make the world a safer place - https://youtu.be/JmcKLJTrHLc

Job Description

To lead, optimize, and manage our global supply chain operations.  Oversee end-to-end supply chain processes, from Demand Planning, Purchasing and Production Planning to Logistics & Freight Spend, Trade Compliance and Shipment, ensuring efficient operations across all regions. This role will play a critical part in driving strategic initiatives, improving supply chain performance, and enhancing cost-efficiency across the business.

Responsibilities:

  • Build world class supply chain for the OEM business on systems, processes, policies, and practices.
  • Develop and implement the global supply chain strategy aligned with the company's business goals, ensuring optimal efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.
  • Actively apply & deploy supply chain excellence in Global Supply Chain & Factories.
  • Continuously evaluate and improve supply chain operations, including inventory management, forecasting, logistics, NPI, Trade Compliance.
  • Work closely with internal teams (e.g., Commercial, Operations, Finance, Products, etc.) to ensure seamless integration and alignment of supply chain activities with business needs.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with global logistics partners. Negotiate contracts and manage performance to ensure high-quality, timely deliveries.
  • Ensure compliance with local and global regulations, standards, and best practices.
  • Leverage existing analytics and supply chain technology to drive continuous improvement, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and generate actionable insights for decision-making.
  • Continue to Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global supply chain team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence.
  • Incorporate innovative technologies or practices to improve long-term business sustainability.
  • Resolve all urgent supply chain issues to ensure supply continuity.
  • Ambassador of cross-functional collaboration, engagement and change management to achieve common business goals.
  • Use data analytics to develop and enhance KPIs to drive performance and decision making.
  • Share best practices and actively contributes to process improvement; delivers results through problem solving and process improvement activities.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field. Master’s degree or MBA is preferred.
  • Ideally possessing a relevant professional qualification and/or suitable background experience in Demand & Supply Planning and Logistics.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in global supply chain management, including at least 3 years in a leadership role. Experience with multinational supply chains and cross-border operations is required
  • Strong hands-on knowledge of all aspects of the Supply Chain; logistics, purchasing, planning, forecasting, inventory management and dealing with complex supply chain requirements.
  • Language skills in English required.

Skills & Abilities:    

  • Strong knowledge of supply chain management and logistics strategies.
  • Excellent leadership and team-building skills.
  • Advanced proficiency in supply chain software, ERP systems, and data analytics tools.
  • Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, global business environment.
  • Solid understanding of international trade regulations and supply chain compliance.
  • Experience in change management in a business transformation journey.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proven track record in delivering efficient day to day operation
  • High degree of organization and ability to manage multiple, competing priorities simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication (verbal and written) and collaboration skills that enable you to earn trust at all levels.
  • Ability to think and move quickly and inspire his/her team in an environment where problem solving, and action bias is desired
  • Highly analytical and use data to guide decision making process.

Additional Information

Diversity & Inclusion:

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (www.smithsdetection.com/careers)

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