James (Jim) Bough is a results-driven supply chain executive with over 30 years of experience in industrial distribution, electrical products, and global sourcing. With a career that began in sales, Jim offers a unique blend of commercial acumen and operational excellence, making him a highly effective leader in supply chain strategy, product management, and procurement. His deep understanding of sales dynamics allows him to bridge the gap between commercial teams and supply chain operations, ensuring alignment between business objectives and operational execution.
Jim most recently served as Vice President of Supply Chain at Allredi, where he implemented strategic inventory management systems, optimized supplier relationships, and streamlined purchasing operations. His leadership was instrumental in reducing expenses, consolidating vendor partnerships, and aligning procurement strategies with sales goals to drive growth and efficiency. His ability to cultivate high-performing teams and develop robust supply chain processes has made a lasting impact across multiple organizations.
Prior to Allredi, Jim played a pivotal role in the expansion and transformation of OmniCable following its acquisition of Houston Wire & Cable Company (HWC). As Vice President of Purchasing – International, he managed an annual purchase volume of $300M, developed global sourcing strategies, and optimized inventory forecasting for 20 distribution centers across North America. His expertise in negotiating favorable payment terms and supplier agreements significantly improved cost efficiencies while maintaining high service levels.
During his 15-year tenure at HWC, Jim held multiple leadership positions, culminating in his role as Vice President of Supply Chain & Product Management. He led a team of supply chain professionals managing a $250M product spend and up to $100M in inventory. Under his leadership, HWC improved inventory turns by 43% and implemented forecasting models to enhance demand planning. His strategic approach to procurement, contract negotiations, and supplier relationship management contributed to the company’s sustained profitability and operational success.
Jim’s ability to navigate complex supply chain challenges is underscored by his hands-on approach to data analysis and technology integration. Without dedicated analytics support, he personally developed forecasting and modeling tools to optimize inventory allocation and reduce waste. His proactive mindset enabled his teams to mitigate risks associated with commodity price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions, ensuring business continuity even in volatile market conditions.
Beyond supply chain management, Jim is an adept leader in M&A due diligence and integration. His experience in evaluating acquisition targets, streamlining supply chain functions, and aligning procurement strategies during corporate transitions has positioned him as a valuable asset in growth-focused organizations. His tenure in both private and publicly traded companies has equipped him with the governance and financial acumen necessary to drive sustainable business outcomes.
A graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in International Economics, Jim has supplemented his education with advanced training in inventory management through Texas A&M University’s Industrial Distribution Program. His commitment to continuous improvement and professional development has been a driving force in his ability to implement cutting-edge supply chain practices.
Jim’s leadership philosophy centers around collaboration, accountability, and innovation. He believes in fostering a culture of execution, where teams are empowered to take ownership of their responsibilities and drive meaningful change. His ability to communicate supply chain priorities in a way that resonates with sales and operational teams has earned him the respect of colleagues, vendors, and industry partners alike.
Currently on a career break, Jim is actively seeking board opportunities where he can leverage his extensive experience to provide strategic oversight and guidance. His passion for optimizing supply chain operations, enhancing financial performance, and mentoring future leaders makes him an invaluable addition to any organization seeking executive leadership in procurement, sourcing, and distribution.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Jim enjoys spending time outdoors, golfing, and barbecuing. His passion for continuous learning and problem-solving extends beyond the workplace, as he actively engages in leadership and mentoring activities, including his long-standing involvement with the Boy Scouts of America.
Character:
Jim Bough is a principled leader who values integrity, accountability, and collaboration, fostering a culture of trust and execution within his teams. His ability to make tough decisions while maintaining strong relationships demonstrates his commitment to both business success and employee growth.
Knowledge:
With over 30 years of expertise in supply chain management, product strategy, and global sourcing, Jim has a deep understanding of procurement, inventory optimization, and supplier negotiations. His hands-on approach to data analysis and process improvement has enabled companies to streamline operations and enhance profitability.
Strategic:
Jim excels at aligning supply chain strategies with overarching business goals, ensuring operational efficiency while minimizing costs and risks. His ability to implement innovative sourcing solutions and optimize inventory management has led to measurable improvements in cash flow, vendor partnerships, and market positioning.
Communication:
A natural bridge between sales and supply chain teams, Jim translates complex operational challenges into clear, actionable strategies that drive alignment and execution. His ability to negotiate with suppliers, engage stakeholders, and lead cross-functional teams has made him a respected and influential executive in the industry.
