Head of Supply Chain and Logistics

As the pioneers of science, ZEISS handles ever-changing environments in a fast-paced world with cutting-edge technologies and continuous advancements. We believe innovation and technology are key to a sustainable future and solutions for global change. With a diverse range of portfolios in Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets, and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, ZEISS is a global company with over 42,000 employees, including over 4,000 in the US and Canada.

About the role

This senior leadership role is accountable for end-to-end supply chain performance, with full ownership of cost, supplier effectiveness, and product delivery. The position ensures the efficient flow of materials and finished goods from suppliers through manufacturing to customer shipment, driving continuous improvement in COGS, supply chain efficiency, supplier performance, and on-time delivery while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end supply chain cost structure, including materials, logistics, inventory, and overhead.
• Lead strategic cost reduction initiatives across sourcing, supplier management, and internal operations.
• Balance cost, service, and working capital to maximize operational efficiency.
• Partner with Finance to achieve budget goals, productivity targets, and cost savings initiatives.
• Improve end-to-end supply chain processes across planning, procurement, logistics, and inventory management.
• Increase inventory turns while reducing excess and obsolete inventory.
• Enhance demand planning and production scheduling to improve operational performance.
• Leverage ERP/MRP systems and data analytics to drive informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage a high-performing supplier network focused on quality, cost, delivery, and reliability.
• Lead supplier selection, contract negotiations, and ongoing performance management.
• Drive supplier development initiatives that improve capability, scalability, and competitiveness.
• Minimize supply risk through supplier diversification, qualification, and proactive risk management.
• Ensure consistent, reliable product availability and on-time delivery to customers.
• Collaborate across planning, manufacturing, and logistics to maintain predictable production and shipment performance.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions to continuously improve delivery metrics.
• Direct production planning and scheduling to optimize capacity, inventory, and customer service levels.
• Ensure material availability while maintaining healthy inventory levels.
• Oversee inbound logistics, warehousing, transportation, and outbound distribution operations.
• Improve shipping accuracy, transportation efficiency, and distribution performance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a collaborative supply chain organization focused on accountability and continuous improvement.
• Partner closely with Manufacturing, Quality, R&D, Finance, and Commercial teams to align business priorities and drive operational success.
• Foster a culture centered on execution, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction.
• Maintain compliance with FDA regulations, quality standards, and all applicable industry requirements.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks to ensure continuity of supply and operational resilience.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive supply chain experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong background leading supply chain operations within a manufacturing environment; experience in regulated industries (medical device, life sciences, pharmaceutical, or similar) is preferred.
• Demonstrated success driving cost reduction initiatives, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing on-time delivery performance.
• Expertise with ERP/MRP systems and supply chain planning tools, with the ability to leverage data for informed decision-making.
• Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities, with experience collaborating across Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, Engineering, and Commercial teams.

This position requires unrestricted authorization to work in the United States. This role is not eligible for current or future employment visa sponsorship or visa transfers.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 401k matching
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Vacation and sick pay