BURN designs, manufactures, and distributes aspirational fuel-efficient cooking products that save lives and forests in the developing world.BURN has revolutionized the global cookstove sector by proving the business case for selling a high quality, locally manufactured and unsubsidized cookstoves.

About the Role

The Director of Supply Chain Manufacturing is responsible for overseeing the entire supply chain operations and manufacturing processes. This includes managing the sourcing, production, procurement, logistics, and inventory management functions to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations. The role focuses on optimizing production processes, ensuring product quality, and maintaining supplier relationships to meet the company’s business objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement long-term supply chain and manufacturing strategies that align with overall company objectives.
• Analyze market trends, production needs, and resource availability to create supply chain models that improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitor key performance indicators to assess the effectiveness of supply chain and manufacturing operations.

Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee procurement processes, supplier relationships, and contract negotiations to ensure the timely delivery of materials.
• Ensure effective coordination between sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution channels.
• Manage inventory levels, demand forecasting, and production planning to avoid bottlenecks or shortages.

Manufacturing Oversight:

• Lead manufacturing teams to optimize production schedules, meet quality standards and improve operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across manufacturing plants.
• Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance productivity.

Logistics & Distribution:

• Oversee logistics and distribution operations, ensuring products are delivered on time and within budget.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers and transportation partners.
• Optimize warehousing, shipping, and inventory management systems to minimize costs.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with product development, finance, and sales teams to align supply chain and manufacturing activities with business goals.
• Partner with IT teams to implement and improve supply chain technologies (e.g., ERP, MRP systems).
• Engage with customer service teams to resolve supply chain or production-related issues affecting customer satisfaction.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing supply chain and manufacturing team.
• Set departmental goals and objectives, monitor performance, and implement training and development programs.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and collaboration.

Cost Management & Budgeting:

• Develop and manage supply chain and manufacturing budgets, ensuring adherence to cost targets.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities in procurement, production, and distribution.
• Ensure optimal resource allocation across manufacturing sites and supply chain functions.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including disruptions, supplier failures, and production delays.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, government regulations, and corporate policies related to supply chain and manufacturing activities.
• Implement contingency plans to address supply chain disruptions and ensure business continuity.

Skills and Experience:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Operations, Engineering, or a related field. MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in supply chain management and manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics operations.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and supply chain management software.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and people management skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to manage budgets and financial forecasts.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance in manufacturing and supply chain.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align supply chain and manufacturing strategies with business goals.
• Problem Solving: Proficiency in addressing operational challenges and supply chain disruptions.
• Leadership: Capability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor staff, and build a strong supply chain culture.
• Cost Optimization: Proven track record of driving cost reductions while maintaining quality and efficiency.
• Operational Excellence: Commitment to continuous improvement in production and supply chain processes.