Head of Supply Chain - Arlington - Atropos Group

Description

Position Summary

The Head of Supply Chain is a strategic leadership position responsible for creating and overseeing all aspects of the supply chain operations for our aerospace company. This role requires a dynamic leader who can manage complex global supply networks, ensure compliance with stringent aerospace regulations, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to support the company's growth objectives. The position holder will develop and execute supply chain strategies that optimize costs, quality, delivery performance, and risk management while maintaining the highest standards required in aerospace manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement comprehensive supply chain strategies aligned with company business objectives and aerospace industry requirements
• Lead the transformation of supply chain operations to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance competitive positioning
• Establish long-term supplier partnerships and strategic sourcing initiatives to ensure supply continuity and innovation
• Drive digital transformation initiatives including implementation of advanced planning systems, AI/ML applications, and supply chain analytics
• Provide executive leadership with supply chain insights, risk assessments, and strategic recommendations
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of supply chain activities

Operational Excellence

• Develop and oversee procurement, supplier management, materials planning, logistics, and warehouse operations
• Ensure on-time delivery of materials and components to support production schedules and customer commitments
• Create, execute and monitor supplier contracts
• Consult on Make/Buy determinations and cost analysis
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies throughout the supply chain
• Optimize inventory levels to balance working capital requirements with production needs and customer service levels
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain performance including cost, quality, delivery, and inventory metrics
• Manage supply chain budget and drive cost reduction initiatives while maintaining quality and compliance standards

Supplier Management & Quality

• Build and maintain a robust supplier base capable of meeting aerospace quality and delivery requirements
• Oversee supplier qualification, evaluation, and performance management processes
• Ensure supplier compliance with AS9100, ISO 9001, and other relevant aerospace quality standards
• Conduct supplier audits and implement corrective action programs as needed
• Develop supplier development programs to enhance capability, capacity, and innovation
• Manage strategic supplier relationships and negotiate commercial agreements

Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks including geopolitical, financial, quality, and capacity constraints
• Ensure compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and other applicable regulations
• Develop business continuity and disaster recovery plans for critical supply chain functions
• Implement cybersecurity measures to protect supply chain data and systems
• Maintain awareness of aerospace industry trends, regulations, and emerging risks

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain team of professionals
• Establish organizational structure, roles, and responsibilities to support business growth
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Implement talent development programs and succession planning for key positions
• Conduct performance management and provide coaching to direct reports

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field required
• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or Supply Chain Management preferred
• Professional certifications such as CPIM, CSCP, or CPSM highly desirable

Experience

• Minimum 15 years of progressive supply chain experience with at least 7 years in senior leadership roles
• Extensive experience in aerospace, defense, or highly regulated manufacturing industries required
• Proven track record of developing and executing strategic supply chain initiatives
• Deep understanding of aerospace supply chain complexities including long lead times, regulatory requirements, and quality standards
• Experience managing global supply chains and international supplier networks
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale transformation initiatives and change management
• Strong background in contract negotiation and supplier relationship management

Technical Skills

• Expert knowledge of supply chain management principles, methodologies, and best practices
• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar enterprise platforms)
• Experience with advanced planning and scheduling systems (APS)
• Understanding of AS9100, ISO 9001, and other aerospace quality management systems
• Knowledge of ITAR, EAR, and international trade compliance requirements
• Strong analytical skills with ability to leverage data analytics and business intelligence tools
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies

Leadership Competencies

• Strategic thinking and ability to translate strategy into actionable plans
• Exceptional leadership and people management skills with ability to inspire and motivate teams
• Strong business acumen and financial management capabilities
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills for executive audiences
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment with competing priorities
• Change management expertise and ability to drive organizational transformation
• Cross‑functional collaboration and relationship‑building skills

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Professional office environment with regular meetings and collaborative work sessions
• Domestic and international travel required (up to 30‑40%)
• Initially Remote, followed by on‑site at corporate headquarters with visits to manufacturing facilities, supplier locations, and customer sites
• May require extended hours during critical business periods or program launches
• Ability to work across multiple time zones when managing global operations