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Job Description
Associate Director Supply Chain and Logistics
Optum is seeking a dynamic individual to lead the distribution planning, coordination, and transportation of drugs within the Optum network.
Job Summary:
Develop, execute, and monitor transportation processes and strategies in compliance with internal SOPs and adherence to c GMP, GDP and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) regulations.
- Establish operational procedures for activities such as verification of incoming and outgoing shipments, temperature data-logging, and cold chain delivery performance.
- Direct and oversee national and international transportation of temperature-controlled products, ensuring safe, compliant, and on-time movement of products through the network.
- Identify and implement solutions to improve the quality and efficiency of the transportation processes.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate favorable terms, coordinate product movements, optimize pricing, and ensure reliable delivery of high-quality goods.
- Work across supply chain teams to support inventory control procedures, including forecasting demand, managing stock levels, and minimizing excess or obsolete inventory.
- Facilitate collaboration and coordinate with product manufacturers, operation centers, logistics carriers, custom brokers and freight forwarders regarding all aspects of transport services.
- Act as liaison between cross-functional teams such as commercial planning, distribution, 3 PL service providers and a network of pharma manufacturers.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with transportation and logistics service providers and negotiate contracts to ensure cost-effective and reliable transportation services.
- Identify and communicate any shipment risks, and develop appropriate recommendations and monitor the implementation of corrective actions to minimize supply risks.
- Lead and inspire a team of high performing supply chain and logistics personnel.
Requirements:
- Proven experience in transportation management, preferably within the pharmaceutical industry (or bachelor's equivalent in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field).
- Strong knowledge of transportation regulations, compliance requirements, and industry best practices.
- Experience leading, developing, and implementing transportation strategies that drive operational efficiency and cost savings.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions and optimize transportation processes.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to oversee and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
- Proficiency in transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS) and other relevant software applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Demonstrate strong leadership and people management skills; ability to lead teams effectively and help set and achieve performance goals.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience (or Master's equivalent) in Supply Chain and/or Transportation Management.
- Proficiency in using enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, inventory management software, and other relevant technology platforms.
- Experience working with external partners and 3 PLs in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Knowledge of relevant industry regulations and guidelines, such as FDA requirements for drug manufacturing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Experience with contract management and compliance.
- Proficiency in project management tools and software.