HEAD OF SUPPLY CHAIN

Job Description The Head of Supply Chain is a senior executive position responsible for establishing, leading, and optimizing the entire supply chain ecosystem for our monoclonal antibody manufacturing operations. This role requires a strategic leader who can build supply chain capabilities from the ground up while ensuring compliance with international pharmaceutical standards, including US-FDA, EMA, and WHO guidelines. The successful candidate will play a critical role in our startup journey, developing robust supply chain processes that support our mission to serve the African healthcare market. Location Kigali, Rwanda Employment Type Full-time, Permanent Department Operations Job Responsibilities Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Develop and implement comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with company objectives and African market requirements Lead the establishment of supply chain operations for greenfield biomanufacturing facility Build and mentor a high-performing supply chain team from inception Collaborate with executive leadership to define supply chain KPIs and operational excellence metrics Drive digital transformation initiatives and Industry 4.0 implementation across supply chain functions Sourcing & Procurement Establish global sourcing strategies for critical raw materials, including cell culture media, buffers, chromatography resins, and specialized equipment Develop supplier qualification and vendor management programs compliant with pharmaceutical regulations Negotiate strategic partnerships with key suppliers while ensuring supply security and cost optimization Implement risk management strategies for critical supply disruptions Establish local and regional supplier networks to support African market expansion Manufacturing & Production Planning Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize production planning and scheduling Implement demand forecasting models for monoclonal antibody products across African markets Establish inventory management systems for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods Ensure seamless integration between supply chain and manufacturing execution systems Drive lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives Logistics & Distribution Design and implement distribution networks across African countries with varying regulatory requirements Establish cold chain logistics capabilities for temperature-sensitive biological products Develop partnerships with third-party logistics providers and freight forwarders Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations for pharmaceutical products Optimize transportation costs while maintaining product integrity and delivery reliability Regulatory Compliance & Quality Ensure all supply chain activities comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and relevant pharmaceutical regulations Collaborate with Quality Assurance teams to implement supplier quality agreements Maintain comprehensive documentation and traceability systems Support regulatory submissions and inspections related to supply chain operations Implement serialization and track-and-trace capabilities as required by regional regulations Financial Management Develop and manage supply chain budgets, including capital and operational expenditures Implement cost optimization initiatives while maintaining quality and compliance standards Monitor and report on supply chain financial performance and ROI The Position Will Have The Following Direct Reports To Chief Operating Officer Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field Master's degree (MBA, MS) preferred Professional certifications (APICS, CSCMP, or equivalent) highly desirable Experience Minimum 10-15 years of progressive supply chain leadership experience At least 5 years in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry Proven experience in establishing supply chain operations for greenfield or startup environments Experience with monoclonal antibody or biologics manufacturing preferred International supply chain management experience, preferably including emerging markets Track record of building and leading cross-functional teams Technical Skills Deep understanding of pharmaceutical supply chain regulations and compliance requirements Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) and supply chain planning software Experience with cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled distribution Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies Familiarity with serialization, track-and-trace technologies Understanding of biotechnology manufacturing processes and requirements Leadership & Soft Skills Exceptional leadership and team-building capabilities Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and presentation skills Cultural sensitivity and experience working in diverse, international environments Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to thrive in startup environment Fluency in English required; knowledge of French or local languages advantageous Preferred Qualifications Experience in African markets or developing economies Background in biopharmaceutical manufacturing scale-up Knowledge of WHO prequalification processes Experience with digital supply chain technologies and analytics Previous startup or high-growth company experience Advanced degree in relevant technical field #J-18808-Ljbffr