Director of Vendor-Managed Inventory Solutions (VMI)

East Hartford, CTDescriptionJob Summary: NEFCO, a leading distributor of construction materials, is seeking a highly strategic and results-driven Director of Vendor-Managed Inventory Solutions to oversee the company’s expanding VMI function. This role will lead multiple VMI Managers and their teams (Sales Specialists, Implementation Specialists, and Support staff) to deliver a best-in-class national VMI program that strengthens customer partnerships, drives revenue growth, and positions NEFCO as a supply chain innovator.The Director will be responsible for setting the vision, building scalable processes, and ensuring flawless execution of VMI across all customer accounts. This individual will align with VMI operations with NEFCO’s broader digital commerce, supply chain, and customer success strategies, serving as the executive owner of VMI growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction.Job Duties:Strategic LeadershipDefine the enterprise-wide strategy for VMI growth, innovation, and scalability.Establish KPIs, ROI framework, and operational scorecards for all VMI programs.Ensure program alignment with NEFCO’s digital commerce initiatives, supply chain strategy, and customer engagement objectives.Partner with executive leadership to position VMI as a competitive differentiator in construction distribution.Program OversightDirectly oversee VMI Managers and ensure their teams (Sales Specialists and Implementation Specialists) deliver consistently on program objectives.Standardize program delivery models, including customer onboarding, implementation, and account management processes.Drive national consistency in VMI deployments while allowing flexibility for regional and customer-specific requirements.Serve as the executive sponsor for major customer VMI accounts, managing escalations and ensuring client retention.Technology & Process ExcellenceOversee adoption and optimization of VMI technologies including vending machines, cages, RFID/barcode systems, IoT devices, mobile apps, and ERP-integrated platforms.Champion innovation and continuous improvement, evaluating innovative technologies and methodologies to enhance VMI effectiveness.Collaborate with IT, procurement, logistics, and operations to build seamless end-to-end VMI workflows.Ensure accurate data, reporting, and analytics are delivered to customers and internal stakeholders.Team Development & LeadershipBuild and scale a high-performing VMI organization, including hiring, coaching, and succession planning for managers and specialists.Develop training programs and professional development paths for VMI staff at all levels.Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer-first execution across all VMI programs.Financial & Growth AccountabilityOwn the P&L impact of the VMI program, including pricing models, CapEx planning, and margin optimization.Partner with Sales to drive revenue growth from existing and new VMI accounts.Evaluate and implement financial models (purchases, lease, SaaS-style) for VMI assets to maximize ROI.Provide quarterly business reviews, program performance updates, and strategic recommendations for executive leadership.RequirementsQualifications:Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Construction Management, or related field (MBA preferred)10+ years of experience in supply chain, VMI, or inventory management, with at least 5 years in senior management or director-level leadership.Proven success building and scaling multi-site or national VMI programs within industrial or construction distribution.Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, ROI models, and P&L impact.Expertise in VMI technologies (vending, RFID/barcode, mobile apps, ERP integrations, IoT-enabled devices).Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship management skills.Ability to travel to customer sites, NEFCO branches, and industry events.