Materials Manager

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.

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
* Contribute to the plant business plan, including capacity modeling, capital investments, and supply chain strategy
* Conduct scenario planning using data and digital tools to support growth, launches, and demand shifts
* 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

Experience & Education
* 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)

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