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Job Title: Director of Supply Chain and Procurement

Department: Production

Location: Sudbury, MA

ABOUT METHODS

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. supplies high-quality, high-precision machine tools and automation solutions, and designs integrated custom machining processes and systems. Headquartered in Sudbury, Mass., and in operation since 1958, Methods provides an end-to-end portfolio of best-in-class products, engineering, service, parts, training, and integration.

Methods has more than 300 employees, seven technology centers, one high precision machining center, and has installed in excess of 45,000 machines throughout North America.

We currently have the following career opportunity available at our Sudbury, MA headquarters.


POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Supply Chain and Procurement is responsible for overseeing and optimizing supply chain and procurement operations within the manufacturing industry. As a key member of the executive team, this role focuses on developing and implementing strategies for cost-effective procurement, efficient logistics, and seamless supply chain operations. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the machine tool industry and expertise in forecasting engines, Sales Inventory Operations Planning (SIOP), contract negotiation, and vendor management.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Planning & Execution:

  • Develop and implement comprehensive supply chain strategies that align with company goals.
  • Lead the SIOP process to ensure that demand forecasting, inventory management, and capacity planning are seamlessly integrated.
  • Oversee sourcing, purchasing, and inventory management to ensure optimal cost efficiency and achieve on-time delivery.
  • Optimize logistics, warehousing, and distribution to improve delivery timelines, minimize costs and implement risk mitigation for delayed deliveries.
  • Conduct proper make-buy evaluations for options to ensure strategic sourcing and cost-effective decision making.

Procurement Management

  • Oversee procurement efforts to ensure they meet quality standards and comply with company policies.
  • Negotiate contracts to optimize cost-effectiveness while maintaining high standards of material quality.

Vendor and Contract Management

  • Establish strong relationships with key suppliers both domestically and internationally.
  • Manage vendor selection processes ensuring transparency and fairness in bidding and selection procedures.

Forecasting and Analysis

  • Utilize advanced forecasting engines to predict market trends accurately.
  • Analyze data from various sources to make informed decisions regarding stock levels, logistics, etc.
  • Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track supply chain efficiency and effectiveness.

Global Sourcing

  • Leverage foreign business experience in Japan and Germany for sourcing materials or components as well as exploring new business opportunities.
  • Leverage technology and data analytics to enhance supply chain visibility and decision-making

Team Leadership and Development

  • Lead a team  of supply chain professionals by fostering an environment conducive to growth, performance improvement, positive morale, creativity, inclusionary practices, and compliance with corporate policies.
  • Manage and develop a high-performing supply chain and procurement team.
  • Collaborate with production, sales, and finance teams to align supply chain processes with overall business goals.

Risk Management

  • Monitor external environments for risks such as geopolitical changes or supply disruptions; devise mitigation strategies accordingly.
  • Ensure compliance with industry regulations, safety standards, and company policies.

required skills/abilities

  • · Excellent negotiation and supplier management capabilities.
  • · Proficiency with forecasting engines (SAP, APO or Oracle Demantra) and ERP systems.
  • · Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive strategic decisions.
  • · Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • · Knowledge of global supply chain trends, sourcing strategies, and logistics best practices.
  • · Experience implementing successful SIOP models across complex organizations.
  • · Expertise managing multi-million-dollar budgets.
  • · Proven track record negotiating favorable terms on contracts while maintaining solid relationships with vendors.
  • · Ability to speak Japanese and/or German languages considered plus, due to their relevance to certain markets we operate within.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in supply chain management and procurement, preferably in the machine tool industry.

travel

  • Approximately 25% of time

ADDITIONAL INFORMATON

This job description is designed to provide an overview of basic skills, experiences and education required to perform the job and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee to perform the essential functions of the job. In instances where educational degrees are required, the company will take into consideration factors such as additional experience, training, or certifications in lieu of specific educational requirements.

Methods Machine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.