Director, Contract Manufacturing NA

What makes this a great opportunity?

Reporting to the Head of Global RTD Supply Chain and Contract Manufacturing this role will lead all aspects of business in relation to Contract Manufacturing to deliver world-class results in cost, quality, and customer service.

The main focus of this role will be developing and maintaining long-term business relationships with contract manufacturing partners to exceed company objectives including volume growth, product quality, service, and cost optimization. This role will provide a consistent approach to identifying, selecting, qualifying, and managing contract manufacturing partners.

This role will work cross-functionally and provide clear communication of priorities by leading efforts between Brand/Marketing, Procurement, Quality, Research and Development, Transportation & Warehousing, Finance, and Sales &Operations Planning.  This role is also responsible for managing the relationships where Beam Suntory contract manufactures for other companies. This could include relationships where Beam Suntory acquires, divests, or partners with other companies.

Relationships
• Reporting to: Head of Global RTD Supply Chain and Co-Manufacturing
• Key Reports: Lead Planning and Quality teams via dotted line per Global RTD organizational structure.

Role Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Owns and leads the E2E Supply Chain network of Co-Manufacturing short-term and long-term strategic design, implementation and optimization for the region.
• Orchestrate the different Supply Chain functions related to the selection and operation of Co-Manufacturing partners, such as Legal, Planning, Procurement, Quality, Fulfillment, Finance amongst other.
• As responsible of the relationship management with the Co-Manufacturing partners, manage all activities between Beam Suntory internal teams and contract manufacturing partners to facilitate innovation, performance, and productivity projects.
• Own and lead co-man/co-pack contracting efforts, integrating viewpoints from stakeholders and subject matter experts, proposing co-investment / investment opportunities (e.g., pilot line) to meet business objectives.
• Responsible for quality, case fill, dry good and finished goods inventory, finished goods production, cost controls, project management, reporting, regulatory compliance, sustainability, and the overall relationship with our Contract Manufacturing partners.
• Partner and collaborate with Global RTD for regional initiatives related to RTD (Spirits based and Flavored Malt Beverage-FMB). Similarly, support potential partnerships with other entities such as Suntory Beverage & Food (SBF).
• Performs as Supply Chain and Co-Manufacturing representative in key regional forums such as StageGate, Supply Reviews, Monthly Reviews amongst other. 
• Collaborate with Supply Planning to provide regular capacity analysis based on demonstrated performance to ensure adequate capacity is available to meet demand.
• Establish and report KPIs for Contract Manufacturers in quality, food safety, customer service, and cost.
• Support and contribute the development of global Co-Manufacturing framework and global standard procedures.
• Conduct regular operational reviews to identify opportunity areas and eliminate waste.
• Manage inventory discrepancies, claims for excess losses, or supplier non-conformance to control costs and ensure quick resolution of outstanding issues.
• Develop a risk management plan for supplemental production options to mitigate service issues in the event of internal/external manufacturing disruptions.
• Update Contract Manufacturing and cross-functional leadership on emerging manufacturing opportunities and risks. Develop effective and timely contingency plans to avoid issues.
• Independently manage complex projects ensuring critical success criteria are met.
• Coach internal teams on contract manufacturer relations to improve execution.
• Develop policies, processes, and procedures to ensure compliance with our contracts.
• Conduct searches and establish a network of potential partners for future innovation and growth.
• Manage business, relationship, and projects where Beam Suntory contract manufactures for other companies.
• Network with other companies to bring new contract manufacturing opportunities to Beam Suntory.
• Collaborate with Corporate Strategy team on divestures, acquisitions, and partnerships as required.

Qualifications

Skills
• Knowledge of spirits industry and familiar with Contract Manufacturing in the beverage industry
• Experience with lean manufacturing and quality systems supporting a continuous improvement culture.
• Strong internal client management skills
• Strong analytical and trouble shooting skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, ability to be firm and precise.
• Strong computer literacy in MS Office and basic working knowledge about SAP
• Strong Project Management skills, including ability to lead cross functional teams and meet a set timeline.
• Ability to efficiently work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Ability to define problems through data collection, establish facts and draw valid conclusions. Make complex decisions leading a matrix organization.
• Ability to take initiative and make an impact, bias toward action.
• Ability to influence across all levels of the organization.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and logical thinking skills
Education
• BA/BS degree Business, Industrial Engineering, Management, or related field of study is preferred but relevant experience will be considered.
• 7+ years of diverse plant operations, engineering, and/or supply chain experience. Experience managing 3rd party Co-Manufacturing or Co-Packing is strongly desirable.
Languages
• Fluent in both written & spoken English.
Mobility
• Up to 50% travelling rate, across the region