Lead – Supply Chain Digital transformation

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

To lead the development and implementation of data-driven strategies to enhance procurement, planning, third-party manufacturing, and distribution processes. This role aims to leverage advanced analytics and Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning to optimize operations, drive efficiencies, and support Cipla's commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare solutions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Data Strategy Development for Procurement and Planning and Distribution

- Develop and execute a comprehensive Supply Chain data science and AI strategy to optimize supply chain operations that aligns with procurement and planning and distribution objectives, focusing on service levels and cost to serve models
- Identify and integrate key data sources (internal and external) to enhance visibility and accuracy in procurement decisions and planning & distribution processes.
- Evaluate and implement emerging technologies and tools (e.g., GenAI, IoT, digital twins) that enhance data collection, analysis, and visualization capabilities.
- Collaborate with procurement and planning and distribution teams to prioritize data science initiatives that drive operational efficiencies and cost savings.

Advanced Analytics and Modeling for Supply Chain Optimization

- Lead the initiative to deploy scientific (based on secondary stock and sales data) replenishment strategies in Trade (India and Global markets)
- Design and implement predictive AI/ML models to enhance demand forecasting accuracy, optimize inventory levels, distribution planning and improve supplier performance evaluation.
- Drive innovation by exploring and implementing advanced analytics techniques, machine learning models, and AI algorithms to derive insights and create value from large, complex datasets.
- Utilize machine learning algorithms to analyze historical data and identify trends that inform procurement strategies and planning cycles.
- Develop advanced analytics solutions to assess the performance of third-party manufacturers and optimize distribution logistics.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement Across Functions

- Work closely with cross-functional teams, including procurement, supply chain, planning, and IT, to identify data needs and ensure alignment on data initiatives.
- Support initiatives like Control Towers, Predictive Analytics, and Agentic Process Automation (APA) in alignment with GSCM's roadmap.
- Facilitate workshops and training sessions to educate stakeholders on data science methodologies and the value of data-driven decision-making in procurement and supply chain operations.
- Act as a liaison between data science team and business units to ensure that data solutions meet operational requirements and enhance overall performance.
- Communicate findings, recommendations, and project updates to senior management and key stakeholders as and when required.

Master Data Governance and Quality Assurance

- Develop and implement master data governance frameworks to ensure data integrity, quality, and security across all data science initiatives related to procurement, planning, and distribution.
- Design and oversee data quality checks and validation processes to maintain high standards of data accuracy and reliability in analytics outputs.
- Ensure that all data science and AI initiatives comply with industry regulations, data privacy laws, and internal policies to safeguard sensitive procurement and supply chain information.
- Develop strategies to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with data protection regulations, including monitoring and responding to potential data breaches.
- Ensure robust documentation, model governance, and audit-readiness of all analytics solutions.

Team Leadership and Development in Data Science

- Lead and mentor a team of data scientists and analysts, machine learning engineers and AI experts fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning focused on procurement and supply chain challenges.
- Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback to team members to support their professional development in data science applications.
- Encourage knowledge sharing and best practices within the team to enhance overall capabilities and effectiveness in addressing procurement and supply chain needs.
- Work closely with the SCM Academy to build data literacy and analytics capability across the function.

Represent the function in external forums, awards, and academic collaborations.

Performance Measurement and Reporting for Continuous Improvement

- Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of data science initiatives on procurement, planning, third-party manufacturing, and distribution performance.
- Regularly report on the progress of analytical projects and their outcomes to senior leadership and stakeholders, highlighting successes and areas for improvement.
- Conduct post-implementation reviews to assess the effectiveness of data-driven solutions and identify opportunities for further optimization in supply chain processes.

Stake holder Management

- Internal - Global Head of Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence, Procurement Team, Supply Chain Management Team, Planning Team, Finance Team, IT and Data Engineering Teams, Cipla Leadership Group
- External - Third-party manufacturers and suppliers, Stockists, Logistics service providers, Data analytics vendors and consultants, Regulatory bodies

ROLE PROFILE REQUIREMENTS

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

Experience

12-15 years of experience in data science, analytics, or related fields, with a focus on procurement, planning, third-party manufacturing, or distribution and proven experience in leading digital transformation and AI/ML deployment at scale in the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry.

Functional / Behavioral Skills required to execute the role

TECHNICAL / FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES

- Proficiency in data science tools, data warehouses and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL, Agentic AI (MCP), AWS, Azure etc.).
- Experience with machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Gen AI).

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

- Strong understanding of supply chain processes, procurement strategies, and planning methodologies.
- Excellent leadership and team management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Strategic thinking and a results-oriented mindset.

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