Project Manager - Network Optimization

Title Project Manager – Supply Chain Location DeKalb, IL Job Type Contract (11 Months) Compensation $45-$75 per hour depending on experience (W2) Industry Manufacturing About The Role Our client, a global leader in manufacturing, industrial innovation, and supply chain operations, is seeking a Project Manager – Network Optimization to lead strategic initiatives across its distribution and logistics network. This role is responsible for managing complex projects that improve customer service, reduce operating costs, optimize inventory, and enhance overall supply chain performance. The ideal candidate combines strong project management expertise with analytical problem‑solving skills and a deep understanding of supply chain operations. Candidates with a background in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related technical disciplines are highly encouraged to apply. Job Description The Project Manager – Supply Chain will oversee large‑scale supply chain transformation initiatives from planning through execution, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational objectives. Key Responsibilities Lead strategic network optimization projects focused on improving service levels, inventory performance, operational efficiency, and cost management. Manage complex distribution network initiatives, including: Distribution center openings and closures Network consolidation and optimization Facility transitions and operational cutovers Inventory relocation and balancing efforts SKU rationalization and product migration initiatives Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, budgets, resource allocation plans, and risk mitigation strategies. Coordinate cross‑functional teams across Supply Chain, Operations, Logistics, Transportation, Manufacturing, Planning, Procurement, Finance, and Information Technology. Lead inventory transition planning to ensure continuity of customer service throughout network changes. Support network design and optimization efforts by evaluating facility capacity, inventory placement strategies, transportation flows, and service requirements. Develop business cases, cost‑benefit analyses, and executive‑level presentations to support strategic investment decisions. Facilitate project governance meetings and provide regular updates to stakeholders and leadership teams. Apply Lean Six Sigma methodologies to improve processes, eliminate waste, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Establish project performance metrics and ensure successful transition of completed initiatives to operational ownership. Identify project risks, manage change effectively, and support stakeholder communication throughout the project lifecycle. Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Mechanical Engineering, Business Analytics, Logistics, or a related technical field. Minimum of 5 years of experience managing supply chain, logistics, distribution, network optimization, or related operational projects. Proven experience leading cross‑functional initiatives involving inventory planning, facility transitions, network changes, or supply chain transformation. Demonstrated success applying project management methodologies to deliver strategic business initiatives. Strong understanding of: Project scope management Schedule management Budget and cost control Risk management Change management Stakeholder communication Knowledge of supply chain, logistics, inventory management, distribution operations, and transportation processes. Experience leading complex projects involving multiple business functions and external partners. Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to make data‑driven decisions. Proficiency with project management and business tools, including Microsoft Project, Excel, and PowerPoint. Excellent communication, organizational, leadership, and stakeholder management skills. Working knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, including process mapping, value stream mapping, root cause analysis, DMAIC, and continuous improvement practices. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Engineering. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification. Experience supporting distribution center startups, closures, relocations, or network redesign initiatives. Knowledge of inventory optimization, transportation planning, capacity planning, and supply chain network modeling. Experience with ERP, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Supply Chain Planning platforms such as SAP, SAP EWM, Blue Yonder, Manhattan, or similar systems. Experience using data visualization and analytics tools such as Power BI or Tableau. Familiarity with network modeling, transportation optimization, and advanced supply chain analytics tools. Benefits Dahl Consulting is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees that will allow you to choose the best coverage to meet your family’s needs. For details, please review the DAHL Benefits Summary: Equal Opportunity Statement As an equal opportunity employer, Dahl Consulting welcomes candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply. If this position sounds like the right opportunity for you, we encourage you to take the next step and connect with us. We look forward to meeting you! #J-18808-Ljbffr Dahl Consulting