Overview
Skills
Job Details
Job Title: SAP Supply Chain Planning Manager Pharma/Biotech
Location: Foster City, CA
Job Summary:
We are seeking a seasoned Supply Chain Planning Manager with deep expertise in SAP (S/4HANA) and a strong track record in pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industries. The ideal candidate is a strategic supply chain leader with proven capabilities in demand planning, procurement, S&OP, inventory optimization, and ERP transformation. This role will drive cross-functional alignment, implement scalable planning solutions, and deliver measurable improvements in service levels, cost, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning & Leadership
- Lead end-to-end supply chain planning including demand forecasting, supply planning, inventory management, and procurement.
- Drive S&OP process maturity by aligning commercial, operations, MSAT, and finance teams on demand and supply consensus.
- Translate business objectives into actionable supply chain strategies with clear KPIs and measurable outcomes.
SAP & ERP Expertise
- Own the design and optimization of SAP Supply Chain Planning modules (MM, PP, APO/IBP, SD) in collaboration with IT and business stakeholders.
- Serve as planning lead for ERP transformation, managing master data (BOMs, routings), forecast inputs, safety stock strategies, and planning parameters.
- Ensure SAP/NetSuite MRP accuracy and usability, supporting configuration, validation, testing, and end-user training.
Operational Excellence & Analytics
- Improve forecast accuracy, reduce obsolescence, and optimize inventory across finished goods, raw materials, and WIP.
- Build scenario planning tools and automation (SQL, Access, Google Apps Script, etc.) to support proactive, data-driven decision-making.
- Chair cross-functional planning meetings, driving consensus, surfacing risks, and aligning on resolution strategies.
Team & Vendor Management
- Manage and mentor teams of planners, buyers, or warehouse personnel; foster a high-performance, collaborative culture.
- Oversee supplier management, lead time analysis, and purchasing strategies to ensure availability and cost control.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Supply chain experience across pharmaceutical, biotech, med device, and/or high-tech industries.
- 10+ years of SAP experience (ECC, S/4HANA) with hands-on knowledge in planning, MM, SD, or APO/IBP modules.
- Demonstrated success implementing or stabilizing SAP or NetSuite MRP systems, including data readiness and process documentation.
- Expertise in S&OP, forecasting, inventory right-sizing, and procurement.
- Strong knowledge of GxP, FDA regulations, and supply chain practices in regulated environments.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams during ERP implementations, supply transitions, and business transformations.
- Advanced skills in Excel, SQL, Access, Smartsheet, Google Apps Script, or similar planning/reporting tools.
- Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- SAP S/4HANA or IBP Certification.
- Experience with cold chain logistics, reagent or assay manufacturing, and regulatory submissions.
- Familiarity with tools like Business Objects, Tableau, Power BI, or Kinaxis.
- Experience supporting rapid growth, product launches, or portfolio complexity in diagnostic or life science environments.
Education:
- Bachelor s or Master s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a Life Sciences discipline.