HEAD OF SUPPLY CHAIN

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

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

Chief Operating Officer

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