Supply Chain Director

Reports to: Director of Customer Operations Position Purpose 

The Supply Chain Director leads Universal’s global supply planning operations with a focus on forecast accuracy, production execution, inventory optimization, and vendor performance. This role ensures timely product flow, data integrity within our ERP, and cross-functional alignment that supports our sales, merchandising, and financial goals.

Key Responsibilities

Forecasting & Production Planning

• Develop and maintain the most accurate forecast possible, incorporating insights from sales and key customers
• Convert demand plans into executable production schedules that meet vendor requirements and lead times
• Prioritize and escalate production needs by actively monitoring factory performance and delivery risks

Data Integrity & Reporting

• Ensure complete, accurate, and timely supply chain data within Oracle ERP
• Generate and provide performance reporting to Sales, Marketing, Product

Development, and Finance

• Maintain strong SKU-level knowledge to support decision-making and reporting accuracy

Inventory Management

• Issue production orders that support service-level goals while protecting working capital
• Achieve or exceed company inventory margin and turn objectives
• Manage product lifecycle transitions — including mature and discontinued SKUs — in partnership with Sales, Marketing, and Finance

Vendor & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with international suppliers to ensure on-time delivery and strengthened service performance
• Partner cross-functionally to support new product launches, market changes, and evolving business requirements
• Communicate risks, recommendations, and production priorities with clarity and urgency

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Lead, coach, and develop a professional, collaborative supply chain team with clear workload ownership and performance expectations
• Implement process improvements that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and speed
• Support organizational change with flexibility, strong judgment, and proactive problem solving

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Operations, or equivalent experience • Proven experience in Purchasing, Inventory Management, Forecasting, or Supply Chain leadership
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, formulas, multi-level subtotals)
• ERP planning system knowledge — Oracle or Demand Solutions preferred • Effective communicator with strong professional presence and confidentiality awareness
• Demonstrated success in a dynamic and evolving sourcing environment
• Project management and process development experience preferred