Arpan Desai

About Arpan Desai

As an Operations and strategy leader, I specialize in margin improvement, cost management, and global procurement. My expertise lies in developing comprehensive sourcing strategies that deliver value to the organization. I am comfortable operating at the intersection of ambiguity, risk, and high-stakes situations.

Experience

1. Npd Supply Chain Manager and Category Manager

   Mueller Water Products

   Mar 2021 — Present · Chattanooga, TN, US

   Lead end-to-end supply chain processes for New Product Development/Implementation (NPD / NPI) projects, ensuring alignment with business goals-> Develop and implement a comprehensive sourcing strategy across different categories - iron castings, machining, rubber molding, plastics, etc- for all the NPD projects-> Negotiate terms, pricing, and contracts with the suppliers to ensure favorable terms and pricing-> Collaborate with the operations team for the project handoff and a successful launch-> Lead the development and execution of category strategies for iron castings (previously paint and rubber) aligning with overall business objectives and market trends to drive growth and profitability-> Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, negotiating contracts and terms that optimize costs while ensuring quality and service levels.

Education

• Arizona State University

  MSE, Industrial Engineering

  2006 — 2008

• The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda

  B.E, Mechanical Engineering

  2002 — 2006

• Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business

  Executive MBA

Skills

• Minitab
• Product Development
• Industrial Engineering
• Lean Manufacturing
• Statistics
• Simulations
• Six Sigma
• Dmaic
• Value Stream Mapping
• Design of Experiments