Director, Supply Chain

Description

FN America, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal, S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for military, law enforcement and commercial customers worldwide. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia with manufacturing operations in Columbia, South Carolina, FN America is passionately committed to providing its customers with a portfolio of FN-branded products, training and support services that enhance user performance and safeguard their lives. For more information, visit us at or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Position Summary

The Director of Supply Chain is responsible for the strategic planning, management, and optimization of the end-to-end supply chain operations in the firearms industry. This role ensures the efficient and compliant procurement, production, inventory management, and distribution of products while aligning with industry-specific regulations and company objectives.

Job Duties

Supply Chain Strategy and Planning

• Develop and implement comprehensive supply chain strategies to support business goals and growth initiatives for a multi-site organization.
• Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall supply chain performance by addressing supply chain reliability, responsiveness, agility, cost, and asset management efficiency.
• Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry developments to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities. 
• Support ERP system integration, from planning to deployment, while ensuring infrastructure is aligned with FN’s needs. Leads the supply chain portion of SAP migration.

Procurement and Supplier Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of quality materials.
• Negotiate contracts and terms with suppliers, focusing on cost-effectiveness, reliability, and compliance.
• Implement vendor management processes to ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the FN America Small Business program, providing audit and reporting support to both individual and comprehensive small business subcontracting plans.

Inventory and Demand Planning

• Oversee inventory management systems to maintain optimal stock levels and prevent shortages or overages.
• Collaborate with sales and production teams to forecast demand and align supply chain activities accordingly.
• Utilize data analytics to drive inventory accuracy and streamline operations.

Production and Logistics Oversight

• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to align production schedules with supply chain capabilities.
• Manage logistics and distribution channels to ensure timely and secure delivery of firearms and related products.
• Drive continuous improvement activities related to the total material lifecycle including the support of all aspects of materials planning/scheduling, inventory and warehouse management, transportation and logistics.
• Plan, source, manage, and control MRO materials effectively.
• Monitors and reports on the performance level of the distribution center in Arnold, MO.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all supply chain activities comply with federal, state, and international firearms regulations, including ATF requirements and export controls (e.g., ITAR).
• Develop risk mitigation strategies for potential disruptions in the supply chain, such as regulatory changes or geopolitical challenges.
• Implement and enforce policies for the secure storage and transportation of firearms and components.

Leadership and Team Development

• Identify gaps and opportunities for improvement in both technical and management approaches including overall department operations. 
• Provide detailed recommendations and improvement plans and lead implementation teams to capture improvement opportunities.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Promote collaboration across departments to align supply chain operations with overall business goals.
• Identify and implement training programs to enhance team skills and knowledge of industry best practices.

Supply Chain & Vendor Management

• Oversee supply chain management to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of raw materials, components, and pass-through products.
• Develop and manage relationships with suppliers, ensuring that they meet quality standards, delivery timelines, and cost targets.
• Monitor and optimize the flow of materials to minimize lead times and ensure efficient production cycles.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.

Experience Requirements

Minimum ten years of supply chain leadership experience in a vertically integrated manufacturing environment with the responsibility to lead supply chain strategy, execution, and change management is required. Experience with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FARs/DFARs) is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

All FN America employees are expected to demonstrate accountability, collaboration, communication, customer focus, and innovation. Additional requirements of this position include:

• Expertise in supply chain systems, inventory management, and ERP software.
• Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts effectively.
• Strong understanding of firearms industry regulations, including ATF and ITAR compliance.
• Deep knowledge of firearms manufacturing and distribution processes.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of team development and performance improvement.
• Commitment to maintaining regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and senior management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining focus on quality, safety, and efficiency.

Tools

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of manufacturing software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, etc.). Proficiency in data analysis and performance metrics to monitor and improve operational performance.

Licenses/Certifications

Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies required.

Working Conditions

Typical manufacturing environment with exposure to loud noises and dangerous chemicals and machinery. Must be able to lift and move up to 25 pounds unassisted. All FN America employees have a responsibility to participate in the development of a safe and healthy workplace. 

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

FN America is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please email HR@FNAmerica.com. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.