Supply Chain Manager

JOB OVERVIEW

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Supply Chain Operations Manager to lead and manage our end-to-end supply chain operations. This high-impact role focuses on third-party supplier management within the automotive industry, including close partnerships with OEMs, upfitters, transporters, and other key vendors. The ideal candidate is highly adaptable, client-focused, and solutions-oriented, with the ability to travel at a moment’s notice to resolve bottlenecks and drive operational excellence.

This is a high-visibility, client-facing position with significant exposure across the business. The candidate must possess strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to proactively manage complex logistics, streamline processes, and exceed client expectations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead national supply chain operations for vehicle procurement, production, and delivery through third-party partners.

• Manage and nurture relationships with strategic suppliers including OEMs, upfitters, transporters, dealerships, and upfit parts vendors.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for supplier performance and issue resolution—both internally and externally.

• Conduct regular onsite visits to supplier locations to understand processes, ensure timeline adherence, and troubleshoot delays.

• Monitor production throughput across the supply chain through reporting and supplier engagement.

• Design and implement supply chain workflows that align with specific client requirements.

• Analyze data, identify trends, and proactively resolve bottlenecks or capacity constraints.

• Provide detailed reporting and updates to leadership and clients regarding supply chain performance and exceptions.

• Partner with internal operations and client teams to drive integrated solutions and customer satisfaction.

• Respond swiftly to disruptions—traveling as needed to supplier locations to resolve issues and maintain delivery timelines.

• Drive continuous improvement through process audits, supplier capability assessments, and corrective action planning.

• Deliver world-class service to end users, resolving escalated inquiries with professionalism and urgency.

• Identify coverage gaps in supplier networks and ensure robust, scalable solutions are in place.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to drive strategic initiatives and enhance supply chain efficiency.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position has no managerial responsibilities.

COMPETENCIES - SKILLS

• Strategic thinker with a strong bias for action and attention to detail.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to influence across all levels.

• Demonstrated ability to build strong supplier and client relationships.

• Skilled in process improvement and operational excellence methodologies.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel (XLOOKUP, formulas, pivot tables); ability to work with large datasets.

• Proven ability to analyze complex problems and develop innovative solutions.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

• Deep understanding of supply chain systems and cross-departmental dependencies.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required; supply chain, operations, logistics, or business discipline preferred.

• 5–10 years of relevant experience in supply chain management, supplier performance, or operations.

• Proven track record in managing third-party logistics, OEM relationships, or vehicle upfit suppliers.

• Experience with quality improvement and lean methodologies (Lean Six Sigma preferred).

• Supply chain certification (e.g., APICS, CSCMP) is a plus.

• Willingness and ability to travel frequently and sometimes on short notice.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS, PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work Environment:  This position is in Georgia or Illinois and operates in a professional office environment.

Positions Type/Standard Schedule:  This is a Full-time position, Monday through Friday.

Travel:  Occasional travel (less than 25%) is expected for this position to visit with client and suppliers.

Physical Demands:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee must regularly talk and hear and use hands and fingers to operate computer keyboard and phone.

DISCLAIMER

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Wheels recognizes benefits are a significant part of your employee experience, and we've created a robust benefits package that is market-leading, competitive offerings so you and your family can receive outstanding care. Please click here for an overview of the benefits available to you and your family.

Pay Range:

The base salary range for this position is listed above. This position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive plan which is based on company performance and individual performance. Compensation ranges are based on several factors including job function, level, and geographic location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience, education, certifications, skill level and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed here.