Supply Chain Optimization Manager
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 24, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 23, 2026.
Our portfolio centers around dairy and non-dairy nutritional ingredients. We co-innovate and deliver ingredient solutions and precision premixes for mainstream food and beverage, infant and clinical, and functional nutrition markets. We are the number one provider of whey-based nutritional ingredients globally and the number one producer of American-style cheddar cheese. Our protein systems have transformed the bar and beverage categories by bringing increased protein, cleaner labels and greater product functionality to market. We have a direct presence in 21 countries, with manufacturing facilities in the US, Germany and China, and international sales and technical offices around the world.
The Supply Chain Optimization Manager will plan, execute and finalize projects within agreed timelines and budgets. This role will identify and secure resources, coordinate cross-functional teams and third-party partners, align stakeholders on project objectives, and ensure improvements are sustainable. The manager will also support other teams and divisions as required.
- Direct and manage projects from initiation through completion, including development of project plans.
- Define project scope, goals, deliverables and success criteria in collaboration with key stakeholders.
- Communicate project expectations clearly and promptly, while continually managing stakeholder alignment and expectations.
- Influence effectively across all levels of the business to gain buy-in and drive results.
- Provide common problem-solving and analytical tools used in supply chain optimization.
- Lead root-cause analysis, troubleshooting and problem-solving exercises.
- Estimate the resources and participants required to achieve project goals.
- Draft and submit budget proposals and recommend subsequent budget changes when necessary.
- Partner with department leaders to secure required personnel and resources.
- Delegate tasks and responsibilities, and identify and resolve project-team issues or conflicts.
- Plan and manage project timelines and milestones using appropriate tools.
- Develop and deliver progress reports, metrics, proposals, requirements documentation and presentations.
- Analyze results, troubleshoot problem areas and proactively manage changes in project scope.
- Identify potential risks or crises and develop contingency plans.
- Build and strengthen business relationships that are vital to project success.
The Skills you will bring to the team
- Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 10 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, successfully managing complex programs, projects and/or processes.
- Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and lead teams through projects to successful completion.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, including email, record keeping, databases, word processing, spreadsheets and graphics.
- Strong familiarity with project management software, such as Microsoft Project.
- Ability to adapt to shifting priorities, demands and timelines and remain flexible during periods of change.
- Persuasive, encouraging and motivating leadership style.
- Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously and delegate assignments effectively.
- Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
- Ability to interpret technical instructions presented in mathematical or diagram form and work with abstract and concrete variables.
- Experience working both independently and in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
- Commitment to proactive team efforts, knowledge sharing and achievement of departmental and company goals.
- Commitment to complying with all safety policies, practices and procedures and reporting unsafe activities.
If you think you have what it takes, but don't necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please apply!
Where and how you will work
The opportunity will be based in the Chicago, Illinois area. Occasional overnight travel of up to 30% by is required.
What we would like to offer you!
The opportunity to develop your career on a global stage, continuous learning through an on-demand learning platform, and a competitive compensation package including staff discounts, generous family leave policy, health & dental plan, competitive salary, and 401K.
Compensation for roles at Glanbia varies depending on a wide range of factors including, but not limited to, the specific office location, role, skill set and level of experience. Glanbia provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in Illinois. This range may not be applicable to other locations. Factors used to determine actual salary may include specific skills, years of experience and comparison to current employees already in this role. The typical candidate is hired below the midpoint of the range. The annual salary for Illinois-based employees for this role is $115,000 - $145,000 plus an annual bonus.
About Glanbia
Glanbia is a better nutrition company with three divisions: Performance Nutrition, Health & Nutrition and Dairy Nutrition. Collectively and with our partners, we offer an incredible breadth of expertise in nutrition. We employ a team of 5,800 people, work with global food and beverage companies, and sell our award-winning and market-leading brands and ingredients in more than 100 countries worldwide.
At Glanbia, we celebrate diversity, because we know that our individual strengths make us stronger together. We welcome and encourage interest from a variety of candidates. We will give your application consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.
At Glanbia, our culture celebrates individuality, knowing that together we are more.