Company Name
Confidential
Search Job Title
Vice President of Supply Chain
Client Profile
The client is a highly reputable retailer and distributor of automotive components and parts, generating approximately $3 billion in annual revenue. They maintain one of the highest customer satisfaction and retention rates in their industry segment. Their exceptional culture and brand performance have even been the subject of a Harvard Business School case study, which highlighted the company’s unique approach to customer service and operational excellence.
Role Objectives & Challenges
The client was facing significant capacity constraints and inventory challenges stemming from an outdated technology platform, an antiquated inventory planning process, and distribution operations that were nearing maximum capacity. These issues posed serious risks to product availability in stores and for customers, resulting in margin pressure and an urgent need for transformation due to the scale and speed of growth. They sought to hire a visionary leader who could drive a full-scale supply chain transformation. This included implementing advanced planning solutions, conducting a network optimization study to identify ideal locations for additional distribution centers, and leading the implementation of a new Oracle ERP system. The company had long operated with a decentralized inventory and replenishment model, which contributed to inventory inefficiencies—ranging from excess and obsolete stock to frequent stockouts—ultimately impacting profitability. The new VP of Supply Chain would be responsible for supporting the company's aggressive retail expansion plans while guiding organizational change within a long-tenured workforce and making a compelling business case for the transformation.
Our Approach to Solve the Search
To identify the right candidate, we targeted leaders from automotive parts retail, distribution, and other relevant retail sectors. Ideal candidates need experience navigating major shifts in seasonality and product availability—an essential competency for managing product assortment and large inventory fluctuations. One of the key challenges was the client’s internal lack of deep supply chain expertise in several critical areas: inventory planning, forecasting, replenishment, and multi-site distribution expansion. They needed a candidate with comprehensive experience in logistics, inventory management, and planning—a rare blend of skills. This end-to-end supply chain leadership requirement significantly narrowed the talent pool. To address this, we advised the client to evaluate the role’s priorities and consider candidates with either a strong operations background or deep planning expertise. This strategic recalibration allowed us to widen the net without compromising on the essential leadership traits required for success in the role.
The Hire & Results
The selected candidate was someone SCM Talent Group had placed more than 20 years ago. At the time, he played a pivotal role in centralizing Home Depot’s inventory planning and replenishment functions—transitioning the company from a decentralized to a centralized model—while also leading the development and rollout of key technology solutions. His proven track record in logistics leadership and operations transformation aligned perfectly with the client’s complex needs. With extensive experience in both strategy and execution, he brought the right combination of tactical knowledge, change management, and executive leadership to help drive the company’s supply chain evolution forward.
