APAC Supply Chain Manager - Latex Binders

The APAC Supply Chain Manager for Binders is responsible for overseeing the execution of regional supply chain operations. This role provides strategic guidance on various supply chain functions, including:

• S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning),
• Working capital management,
• Inventory management,
• Input to Logistics and customer service design,
• Overall supply chain performance.

The APAC Supply Chain Manager reports directly to the Global Business Supply Chain Leader and works closely with the Global Binders Leadership team and supporting functions.

Essential Functions

SC Process Responsibilities

• Support the supply chain team in enhancing planning skills and improving the usage of the SAP ERP system.
• Assist the Global Supply Chain Manager for Latex Binders in efforts to standardize and harmonize processes across regions.
• Manage special supply chain projects, both internally and with on-site suppliers/customers. This includes understanding, analyzing, and improving end-to-end (E2E) process flows using Six Sigma, Lean, or similar methodologies.
• Organize and lead the S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) process for the APAC region and related meetings, ensuring efficient execution of identified action items.
• Facilitate monthly supply reviews and bi-weekly SOE (Sales Order Execution) meetings. Develop gap-closing solutions, recommendations, and scenarios to re-optimize the business.
• Ensure that any issues and imbalances identified during the monthly S&OP cycle are cross-functionally reviewed, resolved, or escalated with recommendations and alternatives for closure.
• Collaborate with Product Management, Finance, and Supply Chain teams to ensure continuous integrated resolution of issues, as well as day-to-day management of threats and opportunities related to the plan.
• Consolidate supply inputs as needed.
• Clearly communicate supply constraints and present options for trade-offs when necessary.

Change/Improve the Business

• Support your team in managing change and adapting to new processes and technologies, such as demand planning tools, MRP (Material Requirements Planning), and advanced planning tools.
• Monitor key performance indicators (e.g., inventory targets) and identify areas for process improvement and cost optimization.
• Collaborate closely with the Global Planning Excellence team to identify potential process or system improvements for greater efficiency and automation.
• Lead the APAC Binders supply chain team to align with and support regional business strategy development and implementation, driving profitable business growth.

Leadership

• Coach and develop your team, focusing on growth, performance management, and succession planning.
• Advocate and promote the PAACE culture within the team.
• Ensure all team members receive the necessary training and support to effectively perform their daily tasks.

Supply Chain Manager Job Requirements:

1. Education & Experience:
   • Advanced secondary education degree (master, bachelor) in supply chain, business economics or similar or finalized commercial/technical education with several years of experience.
   • >5 years supply chain and/or planning experience in a complex (specialty chemical) process industry environment.
   • Experience in S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) implementation is a strong plus.
   • Sigma Lean and/or APICS certification or similar qualifications are advantageous (Green/Black Belt certification is a plus).
2. Technical Skills:
   • Strong SAP expertise, especially in modules such as SD (Sales & Distribution), MM (Materials Management), and PP (Production Planning); S4 HANA knowledge is a plus.
   • Advanced MS Excel and PowerPoint skills are required; Power BI knowledge is a strong plus.
   • Ability to understand, structure, and visualize end-to-end supply chain processes and how they are linked to S&OP.
   • Affinity for data and digitalization, with a logical and systematic approach to work.
3. Business Acumen:
   • Strong business acumen with commercial working knowledge.
   • Ability to balance demand and supply while understanding the importance of commitments from different stakeholders.
   • Ability to solve problems, make decisions, and bring topics to final resolution while collaborating with internal and external partners.
4. Leadership & Change Management:
   • Strong ability to coach, develop, and manage teams, focusing on growth, performance management, and succession planning.
   • Proven experience or knowledge of change management, with the ability to challenge the status quo and drive change.
   • High level of proactivity, accountability, and willingness to lead initiatives that foster development in the supply chain.
5. Mindset & Soft Skills:
   • Continuous improvement mindset with Lean or Sigma methodologies (Green/Black Belt certification a plus).
   • Ability to handle pressure, complexity, and remain focused under stress.
   • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, across all organizational levels, in English and German (additional languages are a plus).
   • Comfortable with new technologies, systems, and digitalization initiatives.