Director, Supply Chain - IHOP

About the role

Centralized Supply Chain Services, LLC (CSCS) serves as the sole purchasing agent for the Applebee’s and IHOP systems. Originally established as a cooperative purchasing organization, CSCS combines the buying power of both brands and currently oversees roughly $2 billion in annual spend for its member operators.

The organization’s purpose is twofold: to help members secure reliably available goods and distribution services in the quantities they need at the lowest practical delivered cost, and to partner with Applebee’s and IHOP on the development of new products and programs that strengthen each brand. CSCS is made up of supply chain professionals who are deeply invested in the success of member restaurants and operate within a culture built on results, integrity, accountability, continuous improvement, community, and focus on members.

CSCS also supports an inclusive workplace by encouraging ongoing learning, development, and a culture where different perspectives are welcomed, supported, and valued.

Stakeholder leadership and brand partnership

• Act as the main liaison for IHOP and keep brand direction closely aligned with supply chain execution.
• Develop and sustain effective working relationships with IHOP leadership, Pancake Board Members, franchisees, and CSCS functional teams.
• Use influence to bring marketing, culinary, quality assurance, operations, supply chain, and analytics partners into alignment.

Program and campaign execution

• Oversee the full lifecycle of new product development, testing, and rollout for promotions, limited-time offers, menu changes, and brand initiatives.
• Manage the authorization process for inventory ordering with CSCS leadership, the CSCS Board of Directors Chairman, and IHOP representatives to support tests, promotions, limited-time offers, menu changes, and brand programs.
• Coordinate cross-functional planning for inventory contingency actions and depletion plans when supply is short or inventory runs in excess.

Performance and continuous improvement

• Present and explain promotional scorecard results that track stakeholder performance for each supported event.
• Share strategic perspective on the foodservice industry, maintain awareness of cost of goods, and stay focused on IHOP business priorities.
• Identify and drive process improvements and best practices across CSCS operations.

Education and qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in business or a related discipline is the minimum educational requirement. An MBA is preferred.

The role calls for 7 to 10 years of experience in supply chain, project management, account management, or a similar area. Candidates should have a track record of leading cross-functional work in complex stakeholder settings, strong analytical and problem-solving ability, and the capacity to turn data into business insight. The ability to influence others without direct reporting authority is essential. Experience in foodservice or restaurant environments is preferred.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) with 5% match
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance