Director Supply Network Lead

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Director Supply Network Lead to join a global technology company based near Stuttgart. This pivotal leadership position involves shaping the long-term strategy and operational excellence of a worldwide supplier network. You will spearhead commodity and supplier strategies for complex international supply chains, aligning closely with multiple internal teams to realize sustainable sourcing frameworks, supplier governance, and enduring partnerships. Ensuring a responsive, scalable, and high-quality supplier ecosystem while driving continuous performance improvements and supporting business growth will be your prime focus.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and roll out global commodity and supplier strategies for targeted product categories.
• Build and sustain a robust supplier network emphasizing quality, capacity, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and risk reduction.
• Lead supplier selection, qualification, and nurture lasting supplier relationships.
• Implement supplier performance evaluation systems, track key indicators, and trigger improvement initiatives as needed.
• Negotiate contracts and develop commercial frameworks in partnership with legal and business teams.
• Collaborate effectively with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Manufacturing, and other departments to integrate sourcing strategies with company objectives.
• Oversee strategic sourcing projects, organizational transformations, and ongoing enhancement programs.
• Guide, mentor, and expand a dynamic international team while encouraging a culture of collaboration and high achievement.

Candidate Profile

• Academic degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or equivalent fields.
• Minimum of ten years’ experience in strategic procurement, sourcing, supplier oversight, or supply chain roles within international contexts.
• Expertise in the design of commodity strategies, supplier selection processes, performance management, and contract negotiations.
• Experience managing suppliers across complex, layered global supply chains.
• Industry background in manufacturing, electronics, industrial tech, semiconductors, or related high-technology sectors strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership skills either through people management or spearheading cross-functional initiatives in matrix organizations internationally.
• Track record of enhancing supply chain effectiveness through measurable KPIs on quality, delivery, cost, resilience, capacity, and operational excellence.

Essential Skills

• Strategic approach to Supply Chain Management
• Proficiency in Strategic Sourcing and Procurement
• Expertise in Commodity Management
• Capability in Supplier Relationship and Performance Management
• Strong Contract Negotiation skills
• Risk Management competence
• Cost Optimization techniques
• Effective Stakeholder Management
• Strategic Planning and execution
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Leadership and Talent Development
• Cross-functional collaboration