Head of Operations – VSM & Supply Chain
Location: South Holland, Netherlands
About the Role
We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Head of Operations – VSM & Supply Chain to lead warehouse operations, inventory management, supply chain functions, and product customization activities. This leadership role will oversee a team of Value Stream Managers, Supply Chain Specialists, and operational staff at a key Netherlands facility.
The successful candidate will be accountable for the execution of end-to-end warehouse, logistics, and production processes, including inventory accuracy, order fulfillment, equipment maintenance, and on-time delivery. This role is also responsible for driving continuous improvement and Lean transformation to ensure operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Warehouse and Inventory Management
- Monitors inventory levels, oversees stock replenishment and quality of inventory. Ensures warehouse operations meet all department mandated timeframes and deadlines
- Establishes key performance indicators for all teams to measure and track incoming and outgoing materials. Reviews KPIs on a regular basis with supervisors to identify gaps and solutions
- Analyze current distribution processes to implement improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Optimizes the warehouse footprint for efficiency and space
- Maintains the operating expenses based on the annual budget and assists in preparation of annual warehouse operations budget
- Oversees the development, deployment and direction of warehouse change programs and processes
- Fully responsible for all inventory management of the distributions. Will work directly or indirectly with Planners and Buyers to established Finished Goods inventory levels.
- Ensure that all material handling and transportation equipment is properly maintained and safe to operate
- Establishes and maintains long-term customer relationships, building trust and respect by consistently meeting and exceeding expectations.
- Supply Chain Management
- Use ABC-XYZ analysis to optimize inventory levels, balancing stock and customer delivery expectations maximizing cash flow.
- Lead and mentor the regional supply chain specialists and buyers through training and development.
- Support the sales department with planning, execution and all other operational issues regarding the inbound supply chain.
- Manage all operational issues related to the inbound flow and outbound drop shipment flow to our customers all over the world.
Product Customization
- Monitors and manages machine OEE, as well as process effectiveness and efficiency
- Ensures standard operating procedures are always up-to-date and get reviewed and improved regularly
- Gives direction to the responsible Value Stream Manager on priorities
- Ensures all operations meet all department mandated timeframes and deadlines
- Establishes key performance indicators for all teams to measure and track and manage performance. Reviews KPIs on a regular basis with supervisors to identify gaps and solutions
Continuous Improvement, Lean, and Problem-Solving
- Leads Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives by identifying and implementing Lean methodologies to enhance productivity, throughput, and efficiency.
- Utilizes Lean tools such as Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work, and Value Stream Mapping to drive process improvements.
- Implements root cause problem-solving techniques such as 5 Whys and Fishbone Analysis to address operational inefficiencies and prevent recurring issues.
- Drives automation and system improvements to increase productivity and reduce manual labor.
- Works cross-functionally to improve workflows, reduce lead times, and eliminate waste in warehouse operations.
- Coaches and trains team members on CI methodologies to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
People Management
- Leads, trains and develops a team of distribution staff, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency and excellence
- Effectively communicates with direct reports and internal customers in sales and operations. Collaborates on all warehouse projects
- Prepares and conducts annual performance reviews for Supervisors. Provides constructive and positive feedback on an ongoing basis
- Practice and adhere to all company policies
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, or Operations Management
- 5+ years of operations or warehouse management experience
Preferred
- Experience with transportation carriers (TL, LTL, Intermodal, Parcel)
- Union environment leadership experience
- Strong analytical, budgeting, and resource allocation skills
- Working knowledge of Lean and continuous improvement tools
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and inventory management systems
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to present operational data clearly
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Participation in a performance-based incentive plan
- Comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working arrangements where applicable
Why Join Us?
Join a forward-thinking organization where operational excellence and innovation are at the heart of the business. This is a great opportunity to make a significant impact in a global supply chain and production environment, while developing your leadership career in a collaborative and growth-focused workplace.
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