Global Director, Logistics & Network Optimization

The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Global Network Strategy & Optimization (Primary Emphasis)

Design and continuously optimize the global logistics network (plants, warehouses, DCs, 3PLs, lanes, modes)
Lead network modeling and scenario analysis to balance service, cost, inventory, and risk
Optimize cost-to-serve by customer, lane, product, and BU, partnering closely with Finance
Drive structural improvements (e.g., footprint rationalization, mode shifts, regionalization, postponement strategies)
Reduce complexity and variability across regions while respecting BU-specific needs

2. Logistics Execution Excellence & Governance

Establish a clear global operating model with defined decision rights, standards, and escalation paths
Own 3PL governance: performance management, SLAs, KPIs, safety, audit readiness, and continuous improvement
Standardize logistics KPIs (OTIF, dwell, accessorials, claims, inventory accuracy, cost per unit)
Partner with regional teams to drive disciplined execution and rapid issue resolution

3. Financial Acumen & Cost Management

Full ownership of logistics budgets and productivity targets across regions
Implement and sustain standard costing for logistics and warehousing (rates, absorption, variance analysis)
Build robust cost-to-serve and margin analytics to support pricing, customer strategy, and BU decisions
Identify and deliver year-over-year productivity and cash improvements

4. Systems Enablement & Data Transparency

Act as the business owner for logistics processes within SAP S/4HANA
Drive master data discipline (routes, lanes, locations, Incoterms®, pricing conditions)
Partner with IT to define, prioritize, and implement logistics system capabilities (TMS, analytics, reporting)
Ensure data accuracy to support financial integrity, compliance, and decision-making

5. Risk, Resilience & Compliance

Strengthen logistics risk management (capacity, geopolitical risk, congestion, disruptions)
Oversee global trade compliance governance in partnership with Legal, EHSQ, and Regulatory
Ensure audit-ready documentation, controls, and broker management across regions
Review and improve insurance coverage, claims processes, and loss prevention across the network

6. Enterprise Leadership & Stakeholder Management

Serve as a trusted enterprise partner to BU leadership, Supply Planning, Customer Service, Finance, and Operations
Lead and develop a global logistics organization with strong regional leaders
Drive best-practice sharing, talent development, and succession planning
Influence without authority in a matrixed, multi-BU environment

7. Travel – both domestic and international at roughly 20%

In order to be qualified for this role, you must possess the

following:

12+ years progressive leadership in global logistics, distribution, or supply chain network roles
APICS Certification is required
Demonstrated success in network design and optimization within complex, global manufacturing environments
Strong financial acumen: budget ownership, standard costing, cost-to-serve, ROI-based decision-making
Proven ability to lead enterprise-wide change across regions and BUs
Deep experience managing 3PL-led logistics networks and performance governance
Hands-on experience operating within SAP (S/4HANA strongly preferred)
Track record of delivering structural cost and service improvements, not just tactical wins

The following skill sets are preferred:

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering or Operations Management with 8 years of experience
Experience in specialty chemicals, pharma, or regulated industries
Multi-region leadership exposure (NAM, EMEA, APAC, LATAM)
Direct involvement in SAP S/4HANA implementations or major transformations
Strong executive presence with the ability to influence senior leaders