Chris Richard

About Chris Richard

Strategic and results-driven supply chain executive with deep expertise in global procurement and sourcing within the technology sector. Proven track record of leading cross-functional, international teams to drive cost optimization, supply continuity, and operational excellence. Adept at supporting complex new product introductions and scaling supply chain strategies for dynamic, fast-paced global markets.

Experience

1. Supply Chain Operations Manager - Lifecycle

   IBM

   Jun 2021 — Present · Durham, NC, US

   Manage multiple teams focused on lifecycle supply assurance for IBM Server products including Mainframe, Power, Quantum, Storage and Appliances.• Lead end to end management of Memory, SSD, and HDD supplier relationships, including supply demand analysis, future buy planning, LOAs, market trend assessment, supplier roadmaps and shortage escalations to ensure continuity of supply and revenue support.• Supervise New Product Introduction team responsible for Identification and closure of supply shortages in conjunction with Development test phases from power on to general availability on IBM Server products.• Provide status updates to executives on supply concerns and solutions including broker and distribution purchases supporting ramp plan leading up to general availability.• Manage Last Time Buy team responsible for analyzing End of Life impacts on IBM Server products through BOM reviews and identification of possible alternative components with Development and Engineering• Develop business cases for last time buy of end of life materials for review and approval by executives• Oversee semiconductor supply for IBM Server products working closely with manufacturing and planning to assure appropriate lead time and inventory needed to support internal finance metrics and external customer needs• Conduct risk analysis of geopolitical events impacting global supply chains, including assessment of tariffs, regional conflicts, and rare earth element dependencies, to inform strategic sourcing and mitigate operational disruptions.

Education

• University of Massachusetts Lowell

  Bachelor's degree, Plastic Engineering

• University of Massachusetts Lowell

  Master of Engineering - MEng, Polymer/Plastics Engineering

Skills

• Vendor Management
• Contract Management
• People Management
• Process Improvement
• Program Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Sourcing
• Procurement
• Plastics
• Sourcing
• Engineering
• Global Sourcing
• Negotiation
• Problem Solving
• Operations Management
• Outsourcing
• Strategy
• Leadership
• Supplier Management
• Supply Management
• Cost
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Product Development
• Team Leadership
• Manufacturing
• Supply Chain
• Project Management
• Management
• Product Management