Senior Director of Operations & Supply Chain

POSTITION OVERVIEW 

The Sr. Director of US Operations will lead and oversee SMA Americ's operations in the United States, with a specific focus on Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Supplier Quality, and supporting the domestic integration strategy. This leadership role is critical to ensure the smooth execution of operations, the timely delivery of products, and the optimization of supplier relationships.

The Sr. Director will also play a key role in the expansion of SMA’s US footprint, focusing on the integration of manufacturing processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving supply chain localization. The role requires a leader who can drive operational excellence, collaborate across functions, and ensure that the US operations align with SMA’s global business strategy.

PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

Supply Chain Management:

• Lead and manage the end-to-end supply chain operations in the US, ensuring timely procurement, inventory management, and logistics.
• Develop and implement supply chain strategies that increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and align with the company’s growth objectives.
• Work closely with global supply chain teams to ensure alignment with international strategies and facilitate cross-border operations.

Procurement Leadership:

• Manage the procurement function to ensure cost-effective sourcing of materials and services.
• Lead vendor negotiations and establish long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with key suppliers.
• Implement procurement best practices, ensuring the timely acquisition of materials while maintaining quality standards and compliance with legal and environmental regulations.

Supplier Quality Management:

• Oversee supplier quality management, ensuring that suppliers meet SMA's standards for product quality, compliance, and reliability.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions in collaboration with suppliers to resolve quality issues, minimizing impact on operations.
• Develop and implement robust supplier evaluation and performance management processes to continuously improve supplier performance.

Domestic Integration Strategy:

• Play a key role in supporting SMA’s domestic integration strategy for the US market,driving initiatives for in-country manufacturing and local sourcing.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure that the strategy aligns with SMA's broader goals for US expansion, market competitiveness, and cost efficiency.
• Manage the integration of new suppliers and manufacturing processes into the existing supply chain to support scalability and growth.

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement:

• Continuously identify and drive improvements to operational processes, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
• Work closely with senior leadership to identify operational challenges and implement solutions that improve productivity, cost-efficiency, and quality control.
• Develop performance metrics for key operational areas, reporting regularly to leadership on progress toward goals.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Collaborate with sales, service, engineering, and finance teams to align operations with market needs and financial goals.
• Lead cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution of strategic initiatives, particularly those focused on supply chain and integration.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operations managers, procurement specialists, and quality control experts.
• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented culture, encouraging innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure that the team is equipped with the skills and resources needed to meet performance objectives.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management,
• Industrial Engineering, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in operations leadership, with at least 5 years overseeing supply chain, procurement, and supplier quality in a manufacturing or technology- driven environment.

Leadership Profile:

• Ability to translate overall strategy into strategic objectives for the respective areas of responsibility.
• Acts as the ambassador for change.
• Holds themselves accountable to outcomes and results.
• Works collaboratively within peer group, and across other business areas.
• Driven by a strong customer centric and solution-oriented mindset.
•  Experience managing all relevant cost structure within the respective area of responsibility
• Proficiency in the English language, both written and verbal, is required. German and/or Spanish language skills are a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required.
• Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy are required.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems effectively.
• Ability to work well independently and as a member of a regional/global team is required.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects/tasks. Ability to work flexible hours as early morning, evening or weekend work may be required. A valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are required. This position may require periodic domestic and international travel.

WE OFFER

• Pay Range: $129,000-$167,000, annually, dependent upon experience
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental and vision coverage (including $0 premium options) 
• Dedicated Hybrid Schedule: In-Office Tuesday and Thursdays; remote on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Opportunities for professional development and training 
• Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment