Director, Supply Chain Management Programs

Director, Supply Chain Management ProgramsOur client is seeking a Director of Supply Chain Management Programs to lead strategic sourcing, procurement, supplier development, and supply chain operations within a highly regulated defense manufacturing environment. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of direct and indirect procurement, supplier performance, material planning, and supply chain execution supporting complex defense-related programs.The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in supply chain leadership within defense, along with demonstrated success leading procurement organizations in complex operational environments. This role requires a strategic leader capable of driving operational excellence, supplier performance, cost optimization, and program execution while partnering closely with engineering, operations, finance, quality, and program management teams.Key ResponsibilitiesLead all supply chain, sourcing, and procurement activities supporting production operations, strategic initiatives, and new program execution.Develop and implement sourcing and purchasing strategies aligned with operational goals, program requirements, and financial objectives.Oversee supplier selection, qualification, development, and performance management to ensure compliance with quality, delivery, cost, and regulatory requirements.Establish and maintain strategic supplier relationships while negotiating pricing, contracts, and service agreements.Partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, program management, finance, and quality teams to support production continuity and program success.Support engineering changes, product transitions, and new product launches to ensure uninterrupted material flow and operational readiness.Monitor inventory strategies, logistics planning, and material flow to optimize efficiency and mitigate supply chain risk.Identify and implement cost reduction, value engineering, and continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain organization.Develop and track KPIs and performance metrics to drive accountability, operational efficiency, and supplier performance improvements.Lead, mentor, and develop supply chain and purchasing teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Collaborate with finance and executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and long-range operational planning.Ensure compliance with applicable defense industry regulations, contractual obligations, and procurement best practices.Monitor market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry developments to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, or a related technical field required; advanced degree preferred.10+ years of progressive supply chain, procurement, or sourcing leadership experience within the defense industry is required.Proven experience operating within highly regulated manufacturing environments supporting defense-related programs.Strong background in strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement operations, inventory management, and supply chain optimization.Demonstrated success leading and developing high-performing teams.Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.Experience collaborating across engineering, operations, finance, quality, and program management organizations.Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.Experience with ERP platforms such as SAP or similar enterprise systems.Strong understanding of defense industry compliance, supplier requirements, and operational execution within complex manufacturing organizations.Ability to operate effectively in both strategic leadership and hands-on execution capacities.Compensation is $160-185k DOE