Basic Summary:
The Head of Supply Chain is responsible for leading, optimizing, and integrating all supply chain activities across the organization — including demand and supply planning, procurement, materials management, logistics, warehousing, and customer order fulfilment — to ensure reliable supply of pharmaceutical products in full compliance with GMP, GDP, and regulatory requirements. This role plays a critical part in aligning operational execution with business strategy, supporting growth, cost efficiency, and service excellence across both human and veterinary health product portfolios.
Location: Onsite at our facility in Loughrea, hybrid policy applies only after probationary period
As our
Head of Supply Chain, your key responsibilities will be as follows:
Strategic Leadership:
- Develop and execute the global supply chain strategy aligned with corporate and manufacturing goals.
- Drive cross-functional alignment with Production, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, and Commercial functions.
- Lead S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) and IBP (Integrated Business Planning) processes to ensure accurate forecasting and optimal inventory levels.
- Champion continuous improvement, digital transformation, and lean initiatives across the supply chain function.
Planning and Scheduling:
- Oversee demand planning, master production scheduling (MPS), and capacity planning across all manufacturing and packaging sites.
- Ensure reliable supply plans that balance customer service, cost, and inventory investment.
- Implement advanced planning tools and KPIs to enhance forecast accuracy and on-time delivery.
Procurement and Materials Management:
- Lead strategic sourcing initiatives for APIs, excipients, and packaging materials.
- Establish strong supplier partnerships and manage vendor performance, risk, and compliance.
- Drive cost-saving and value-engineering initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.
Logistics and Distribution:
- Oversee warehousing, inventory control, and finished goods distribution (including cold chain and controlled drug logistics).
- Ensure full compliance with GDP, customs, and international trade regulations.
- Optimize freight, distribution routes, and service provider performance to reduce cost and improve delivery lead times.
Governance and Compliance:
- Maintain adherence to GMP/GDP, HPRA, EMA, and FDA regulatory requirements.
- Ensure full data integrity, traceability, and batch release alignment between operations and Quality.
- Support audits (internal, external, and regulatory) and implement corrective/preventive actions as required.
People and Performance:
- Lead, develop, and mentor a high-performing supply chain team.
- Establish KPIs and governance mechanisms for performance management.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and operational excellence.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
- OTIF (On-Time In-Full) Service Level
- Forecast Accuracy (%)
- Inventory Turns / Days on Hand
- Supplier OTIF & Quality Compliance
- Cost-to-Serve Reduction (%)
- Supply Chain Risk & Resilience Metrics
- S&OP Maturity Level
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical or life sciences supply chain leadership roles.
- In-depth knowledge of GMP, GDP, and regulatory compliance frameworks.
- Proven experience managing global suppliers and logistics networks.
- Strong analytical and systems capability (ERP/MRP, SAP, or Oracle preferred).
Skills and Competencies:
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strategic thinker with strong operational execution skills.
- Data-driven decision-maker with financial acumen.
- Collaborative, resilient, and results oriented.
- Passionate about continuous improvement and digital transformation in pharma operations.
Applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those returning after a career break or with transferable skills from non-traditional career paths, are encouraged to apply. We value varied experiences and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that supports individuals with disabilities.
