The Supply Chain Lead / Manager is responsible for managing, optimizing, and overseeing complete end-to-end supply chain operations. This includes strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, logistics, distribution, and inventory control. The role ensures timely, cost-effective, and high-quality acquisition of materials and services while maintaining compliance with internal standards and global best practices.
This position plays a critical role in supplier development, cost control, product development support, and risk mitigation—particularly within the automotive upstream accessories and product development sector.
Duties & Responsibilities
1. Strategic Planning & Supply Chain Optimization
Develop and implement robust supply chain strategies aligned with business objectives.
Identify process bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Monitor and report supply chain KPIs to enhance efficiency and operational performance.
Ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System requirements.
2. Procurement & Vendor Management
Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers; maintain strong supplier relationships.
Lead strategic sourcing, negotiations, and contract management.
Ensure timely procurement of quality materials at optimal cost.
Monitor supplier SLAs, performance, compliance standards, and corrective actions.
Lead supplier development initiatives across China, Asia, and Europe; conduct comprehensive factory audits to ensure capability, quality, and compliance.
Manage overseas supply and develop new suppliers for existing and new business needs.
Expand supplier profiles in global markets, enabling faster development at the right cost.
Ensure suppliers meet the organization’s requirements for cost, quality, delivery, and service.
3. Logistics & Distribution
Manage inbound and outbound logistics, warehousing, transportation, and distribution operations.
Optimize shipping routes, transportation methods, delivery timelines, and logistics costs.
Ensure timely and accurate delivery of materials and finished products.
Responsible for demand management and sales forecasting.
Oversee supplier production schedules and on-time customer delivery.
Manage inbound and outbound freight operations.
4. Inventory Management & Material Audit
Monitor inventory levels to ensure sufficient stock without overstocking.
Implement inventory control systems such as FIFO, JIT, and demand forecasting.
Coordinate and oversee material audits to ensure accuracy of stock records and material movement.
Conduct periodic and surprise audits to identify discrepancies and enforce corrective actions.
Oversee physical inventory counts and cycle audits to maintain stock integrity.
Ensure proper documentation and full traceability of all materials used in production and projects.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
Collaborate closely with Engineering, Design, SCM, Sales, Finance, Quality, R&D, and Production.
Support product development teams with sourcing and supply risk management.
Address customer concerns related to delays, shortages, or product availability.
Maintain comprehensive supply chain records, reports, and documentation.
6. Compliance, Governance & Risk Management
Ensure all supply chain activities comply with legal, regulatory, and safety standards.
Identify and mitigate operational, financial, and geopolitical supply chain risks.
Develop and implement contingency plans for supply disruptions.
Manage supplier rating systems to support quality-related requirements.
7. Reporting & Budgeting
Prepare supply chain budgets, forecasts, and cost analyses.
Monitor financial performance versus plan and initiate corrective action where required.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or Logistics; Master’s degree preferred.
Proven experience as a Head of Supply Chain or Supply Chain Manager within OEM automotive accessory divisions (Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Suzuki, Stellantis, etc.).
Strong procurement background in automotive components, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
Extensive experience managing supply chain operations across China, Asia, Europe, and India, including supplier development, factory audits, site visits, and commercial negotiations (direct travel required).
Strong contract negotiation capabilities and proven success in managing vendor performance.
Deep understanding of logistics operations, inventory management, production planning, and coordination.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to monitor KPIs and drive improvements.
Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Ability to identify, mitigate, and manage supply chain risks in fast-paced, complex environments.