Materials Manager
Job Description
Job Purpose
We are seeking a forward-thinking Materials Manager to lead end-to-end materials strategy in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role blends operational excellence, people leadership, and digital transformation—leveraging AI, predictive analytics, and ERP systems (SAP) to optimize material flow, improve inventory performance, and ensure flawless customer delivery. You will play a critical role in shaping a data-driven, resilient supply chain, aligning production, engineering, and supplier ecosystems to meet evolving customer and business needs.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Execution
• Lead the execution of production schedules, ensuring seamless alignment across materials planning, manufacturing, and customer delivery
• Drive adherence to safety, quality, and compliance standards across all material-related processes
• Maintain green customer delivery scorecards for both production and aftermarket channels, ensuring consistent on-time delivery performance and rapid recovery plans for any service risks
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to achieve plant performance targets
Digital & AI-Driven Supply Chain
• Leverage SAP and advanced analytics tools to optimize materials planning, inventory control, and production flow
• Utilize AI/ML-driven forecasting and predictive planning to improve demand accuracy, reduce variability, and mitigate supply risks
• Implement data-driven dashboards and real-time performance tracking (inventory turns, OTIF, WIP levels, etc.)
• Identify and deploy automation opportunities (e.g., digital Kanban, automated replenishment, smart cycle counting)
Inventory & Flow Optimization
• Lead Lean/continuous improvement initiatives to reduce WIP, excess inventory, and obsolescence
• Design and manage efficient end-to-end material flow strategies from supplier to point-of-use
• Ensure inventory accuracy through robust cycle counting programs, system integrity, and audit readiness
Business Planning & Strategy
- Conduct scenario planning using data and digital tools to support growth, launches, and demand shift
- Drive cost optimization initiatives across materials, logistics, and inventory carrying costs
Supplier & Material Management
• Ensure timely and cost-effective procurement and delivery of materials
• Manage supplier performance, RMAs, rework processes, and escalation resolution
• Strengthen supply chain resilience through risk identification and mitigation strategies
People Leadership & Culture
• Build, coach, and develop a high-performing materials team
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making
• Lead workforce planning, performance management, and talent development
Education and Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 5+ years in materials management, supply chain, or production control within manufacturing
• 3+ years of people leadership experience (preferably in a union environment).
• Strong experience with SAP or equivalent ERP systems
Functional Expertise
• Deep understanding of production scheduling, inventory management, and supply chain operations
• Proven success applying Lean principles to improve flow and reduce waste
• Experience in unionized manufacturing environments (preferred)
Skills and Competencies
Digital & Analytical Capabilities
• Strong proficiency in ERP (SAP), Excel, and data analytics tools
• Experience using or implementing AI, predictive analytics, or digital supply chain solutions (highly preferred)
• Ability to translate data into actionable insights and business decisions
Leadership & Professional Skills
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong executive presence with the ability to influence across all levels
• Highly organized with the ability to manage complexity in a fast-paced environment
• Results-driven mindset with a strong sense of urgency and ownership
Why Join Us
• Opportunity to lead digital transformation in manufacturing supply chain
• High-impact role with visibility to senior leadership
• Collaborative, continuous improvement culture
• Competitive compensation and growth opportunities
Work Environment
• Manufacturing plant environment with occasional extended hours based on business needs
What Sets You Apart
• APICS/CPIM certification
• Experience implementing Industry 4.0 or smart factory initiatives
• Background in automotive or high-volume manufacturing