Director, Supply Chain

At Caribou Coffee we create day-making experiences that spark a chain reaction of GOOD! This is our purpose. Our team brings this to life by focusing on what's really important around here - TEAM, GUEST, QUALITY! It's that simple. If you're ready to work somewhere you can be yourself while making an impact on your community, creating life-long relationships, and serving the best coffee around, join our herd! Apply today and be part of the 'Bou Crew! Position Overview:

As the Director of Supply Chain, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will lead Caribou Coffee's global supply chain operations, focusing on network design, new market entry, top-line sales growth, and strategic partnerships. You will develop and execute strategies to optimize transportation and supply chain operations, ultimately enhancing efficiency, optimizing costs, and supporting global growth. You will oversee vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and manage freight spend while fostering third-party logistics performance and mentoring the supply chain team to advance Caribou's mission and growth objectives. As the Director of Supply Chain, you will lead a Supply Chain Analyst and partner cross-functionally to drive strategic priorities and initiatives that deliver business results.

Core Responsibilities: Supply Chain Network Design & Optimization:

• Lead the design and optimization of the supply chain network, including warehouse, distribution center selection, and outbound route design to support business goals.

• Accountable for negotiated freight rates and fees associated with the transportation and distribution network, owning relevant contracts, and providing inputs for financial planning and annual operating plans.

• Ensure sufficient distribution center capacity, including baseline storage, seasonal flexibility, and load leveling to meet business needs.

• Drive process improvements, freight carrier consolidation, and local sourcing to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase responsiveness.

• Collaborate with Finance, Sourcing, Product, Food Safety, Store Ops, USR, and Warehouse teams to align supply chain activities with overall business strategies, ensuring seamless integration across functions.

• Identify and mitigate risks within the supply chain, such as supply disruptions and compliance issues, and develop contingency plans to address potential disruptions.

• Implement a strategic vision for global growth, aligning supply chain initiatives with Caribou's mission, values, and business goals.

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to inform decision-making on market expansions and new product offerings.

• Evaluate potential partnerships and new business opportunities, develop business cases and supply chain strategies to drive growth.

• Identify annual savings targets and implement strategies to achieve cost savings while enhancing store-level profitability.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with supply chain vendors (e. g. , 3PL, Transportation, Warehouse), negotiating favorable terms and ensuring adherence to quality and delivery standards.

• Develop and implement a strategic supply chain plan that supports the company's growth objectives, operational goals, and customer satisfaction targets.

• Leverage data analytics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor supply chain performance, make informed decisions, and drive continuous improvement.

• Oversee performance management for 3PL partners, focusing on metrics such as cost, on-time transportation, fill rates, distribution center accuracy, and shelf-life management.

• Conduct business reviews and lead the annual planning process with 3PL partners, aligning their objectives with Caribou's supply chain strategies.

• Act as the primary point of contact for escalations and issue resolution, coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure efficient operations.

• Maintain accurate schedules for inbound, intra-network transfers, and outbound logistics, coordinating with internal and external partners as needed.

• Manage logistics for new store openings, including scheduling deliveries, updating order schedules, and coordinating with Franchisees and 3PL partners.

• Oversee permanent, temporary and holiday scheduling processes, ensuring seamless adjustments to meet fluctuating demands.

• Represent transportation and distribution in cross-functional, collaborative planning for non-ordinary inventory movements.

• Lead efforts, in partnership with Development and Sourcing teams to expand the global distribution network, including identifying, standing up, and managing distribution partnerships in all markets globally.

• Develop strategies to support manufacturing products in-market, reducing shipping costs and improving speed to market.

• Evaluate and cultivate strategic partnerships that support Caribou's expansion and supply chain optimization goals.

• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability.

• Provide guidance and support for professional growth, developing the skills and capabilities of the team to meet business needs and drive supply chain success.

• Culture and Brand Champion: Consistently embodies and promotes the organization's culture and values, serving as an advocate for the brand and fostering a positive, inclusive work environment that aligns with the company's mission and enhances its reputation.

• Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making: Skilled in creating and executing strategic initiatives that align with company objectives and drive engagement and organizational success.

• Communication and Collaboration: Clearly communicate business strategies, goals, and expectations across leadership and teams to build rapport and alignment. Demonstrates an openness to giving and receiving feedback.

• Analytical and Project Management Skills: Strong ability to interpret data and insights to guide decision-making, develop creative solutions, and manage complex projects to optimize performance.

• Change Management and Adaptability: Experience leading change initiatives, with a flexible and problem-solving approach to evolving business needs. Comfortable with ambiguity.

• Leadership and People Management: Proven ability to lead and inspire teams, foster a high-performance culture, and develop talent aligned with organizational goals.

• Strong business acumen with the ability to navigate financial and operational contexts a.