Sr. Director Global Supply Chain

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.

Thorlabs’ 35-year success as the leading supplier to the Photonics industry and research market is built on a foundation of operational excellence in global logistics and distribution, with a customer promise of same-day shipping. The Sr. Director of Global Supply Chain is responsible for driving excellence in business execution and maintaining the strength of the Thorlabs brand, through both direct hands-on management and in partnership with senior leaders. The role will closely collaborate with the executive team to set strategic goals for the organization, develop initiatives to execute them, and measurably track impact with a focus on excellence in customer experience. Key to success in this role is a growth mindset with a focus on continuous improvement for the operations of the global company and a deep commitment to excellence and customer experience.

The position requires a strong leader to manage a team built to drive results while also maintaining a focus on customer needs, employee engagement, compliance and safety. Although the location of the position is onsite in Newton, NJ, travel to other Thorlabs locations is expected.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to: 

• Develop and implement strategies and tactics that optimize our operational excellence, with a focus on order fulfilment, global logistics, inventory management, and demand forecasting
• Identify and mitigate potential risks in the supply chain, such as shipping lane disruptions or changes in regulations
• Proactively manage partnerships with our freight partners to achieve optimized costs and improved service delivery
• Create and utilize data and analytics to identify areas for operational improvement; prioritize development of global dashboards and reports to support business objectives
• Build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional teams to meet distribution needs, including Customer Service, Purchasing, Production, and Compliance
• Collaborate with Compliance to maintain adherence with all applicable trade regulations, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) regulations
• Create a strong network with third-party logistics providers to ensure alignment with our distribution goals, set delivery schedules and review adherence to the plan
• Provide insight into the business needs as it relates to the Distribution Center and its related automation initiatives
• Collaborate with the VP of North America and VP of Europe, as well as other members of the Leadership Team, to identify, establish and monitor processes that have strategic fit for global standardization, with an emphasis on improving performance on KPIs that matter to our customers
• Identify opportunities for cost-savings through increased efficiency and effectiveness; develop strategies and execute on these opportunities (independently or in collaboration with other leaders)
• Provide leadership and operational guidance to team members, motivating and mentoring direct reports with clear expectations and feedback on performance
• Model leading change for the organization and other senior leaders through excellence in planning, communication, and values-based leadership
• Promote a learning and growth culture through collaborations with other teams and in leadership role 

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above, all positions are also responsible for:

• Leading, mentoring, and managing in full alignment with Thorlabs values of Trust, Empathy, Accountability, Innovation, and Respect
• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis, performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is in compliance with all Company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Experience:

• Minimum 10+ years of work experience in distribution or supply chain management, including 5+ years in a leadership role
• Experience managing relationships with third-party logistics providers and other distribution providers

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, a related technical field, or equivalent. Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) a plus

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Exceptional communication, teamwork and influencing skills that foster a collaborative and continuous improvement environment
• Knowledge of export control laws and regulations (US, and preferably European)
• Knowledge of supply chain management, exportation processes and regulations
• Working knowledge of ERP systems, D365 preferred
• Proficiency in basic computer use (MS Office) and communication tools
• Demonstrated experience in a customer centric environment
• Experience in the management of people (direct and indirect) and budgets; development of plans and strategies
• Strong ability to take initiative/ownership
• Strong problem solving/analysis skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage concurrent projects, activities, and tasks under time constraints

Organizational Relationships

Direct Reports:

•  Distribution Managers/Directors in both United States and Europe.

•  U.S.A.  Distribution Center.

• This position manages all employees of the department and is responsible for the performance management and hiring of the employees within that department.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identify or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.