Director of Supplier Management
5 days ago
Chicago
Job DescriptionReports To: Executive Vice President of Operations Direct Reports: Procurement Specialist, Expedite Specialist FLSA Status: Exempt Employment Type: Full Time Position Overview: National Safety Apparel (NSA) is seeking an experienced Director of Supplier Management to lead the strategy, performance, and global relationships that drive our supply network. This role is responsible for defining and executing NSA’s supplier management and sourcing strategy, ensuring the organization maintains a resilient, high-performing supplier ecosystem that delivers quality, reliability, innovation, and cost competitiveness. The Director will play a critical leadership role in strengthening global supplier partnerships, improving supply chain performance, enabling new product development, and supporting NSA’s continued growth. This position requires a strategic leader who can influence across the organization, build strong supplier partnerships, and develop high-performing teams while delivering measurable business results. Essential Job Functions: • Define and lead NSA’s supplier management and strategic sourcing strategy across global operations., • Build and maintain long-term strategic partnerships with key suppliers to ensure supply continuity, innovation, and competitive advantage., • Establish frameworks that strengthen supplier collaboration, accountability, and operational performance., • Lead strategic sourcing initiatives supporting product innovation, cost optimization, and operational growth., • Oversee supplier negotiations and contractual agreements including pricing, terms, rebates, performance metrics, and inventory programs., • Ensure sourcing strategies support availability, quality, and cost competitiveness across NSA’s product portfolio., • Drive supplier performance management through scorecards, quality metrics, compliance standards, and continuous improvement initiatives., • Lead initiatives to strengthen supply continuity, risk mitigation, and supplier diversification, including dual sourcing strategies for critical materials., • Guide resourcing strategies based on supplier performance, cost optimization, country-of-origin considerations, and long-term supplier sustainability., • Partner with Supply Chain Operations, Product Development, Planning, and Finance to ensure alignment between supplier strategy and operational needs., • Ensure procurement practices support accurate inventory levels, forecasting, and cost management., • Lead sourcing support for new product development initiatives and supply chain innovation., • Lead indirect sourcing activities supporting all NSA facilities, including:, • MRO and facility operations, • Manufacturing maintenance and equipment, • Capital investments, • Establish and maintain robust supplier analytics and reporting capabilities, including:, • Supplier forecasting, • Supplier performance scorecards, • Purchase trends and cost analysis, • Seasonal demand insights, • Use data to drive informed sourcing decisions and continuous supply chain improvement., • Build and lead a high-performing supplier management and procurement team., • Develop talent through coaching, mentorship, and clear performance expectations. Qualifications: Education & Certifications: • Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent experience) in Business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Organizational Management, or other relevant field of study., • Master’s or other advanced degree in related field a plus. Experience:, • 7- 10 years functional experience in managing external supplier relationships and / or procurement in a Supply Chain driven organization., • Minimum of 5 years relevant leadership experience., • Strong working knowledge of ERP / MRP systems and functionality., • Demonstrated knowledge of Purchase Planning and Forecasting., • Strong coaching and mentoring skills, with the ability to build strong, cohesive, high-performing teams., • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to influence and build relationships across all levels of the company. Strong negotiation skills., • Functional expertise in Inventory Management / Supply Chain., • Initiative and ability to identify, prioritize, build plans and deliver business results. Company Core Competencies: Core competencies are foundational skills and behaviors expected of all employees. Problem Solving Diagnoses root causes; uses data and structured thinking to resolve issues. Approaches challenges with curiosity, structure, and discipline. Analyzes root causes and identifies practical, evidence-based solutions. Weighs short-term fixes against long-term outcomes. Engages others to test ideas and refine results collaboratively. Collaboration & Teamwork Builds trust; works across boundaries; leverages diverse perspectives. Builds strong relationships grounded in trust and mutual respect. Encourages open communication, shared problem solving, and the exchange of ideas. Values diverse perspectives and creates conditions for productive conflict and innovation. Execution Follows through on commitments; monitors progress; course-corrects quickly. Translates plans into action through disciplined follow-through. Anticipates potential obstacles and adjusts course to stay on track. Promotes accountability by defining clear expectations and tracking progress. Resourcefulness & Agility Finds creative ways to overcome challenges and deliver results, even with limited resources. Stays focused on solutions, adapts plans quickly, and leverages networks to achieve goals. Responds quickly to changing priorities and remains calm under pressure. Results Orientation Sets clear outcomes; drives accountability; removes obstacles to delivery. Drives measurable outcomes and holds self and others accountable for achieving goals. Focuses on priorities that deliver the greatest business impact. Manager Competencies: Manager competencies build on core skills and focus on leading teams and developing others. Change Agility Champions change; manages ambiguity; helps others navigate transitions. Embraces change as a constant and helps others navigate transitions smoothly. Communicates clearly about the reasons for change and its intended benefits. Accountability & Performance Management Sets expectations; addresses performance; recognizes contributions. Sets clear expectations for performance and behavior. Provides regular feedback and addresses issues directly and constructively. Coaching & Developing Others Gives actionable feedback; builds capability; supports growth plans. Actively invests time and energy in helping others grow. Provides honest, actionable feedback that reinforces strengths and addresses gaps. Engages & Energizes Others Creates an environment where people feel valued, motivated, and committed to doing their best work. Recognizes contributions, builds morale, and fosters team spirit. Balances Stakeholder Needs Anticipates and manages the priorities of multiple groups. Builds alignment and seeks win-win solutions that address business and stakeholder needs. Integrates multiple perspectives into solutions. Talent Development & Succession Identifies critical roles; grows pipelines; supports mobility and readiness. Identifies critical roles and future talent needs for the organization. Develops internal pipelines by providing meaningful development experiences. Strategic Agility Sees the big picture; anticipates trends; translates strategy into clear choices. Thinks several steps ahead to anticipate changes in the market, industry, or organization. Physical Requirements: Frequent use of computer, keyboard, mouse, and phone. Frequent walking through facility, production floor, prep, warehouse and distribution areas. May stand or sit for extended periods of time. Travel (approximately 20-30%). Working Conditions: Temperature-regulated office environment. Occasional work in manufacturing plant & warehouse. EEO Statement: National Safety Apparel provides equal employment opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap, disability, ancestry, age, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation or any other protected group status as defined by law. Powered by JazzHR H0NRMi21Pl