Materials Manager at Spark Talent Acquisition, Inc. in Chicago, Illinois

Materials Manager

Seeking a strategic and dynamic Materials Manager to lead materials planning, procurement, logistics, and inventory control operations. The role oversees a cross-functional team and drives efficient, cost-effective materials management processes that align with organizational goals and customer requirements. The ideal candidate is an innovative, data-driven leader with a passion for supply chain excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational growth.

Position Responsibilities:

• Direct and support departmental staff, ensuring effective training, performance evaluation, and professional development to meet current and future business needs.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and customers to schedule production, manage transportation logistics, and maintain optimal inventory levels to meet demand.
• Develop, implement, and maintain procedures for accurate and timely materials management reporting.
• Oversee supplier relationships, focusing on performance metrics and participating in program management activities as needed.
• Ensure timely procurement of production and service components. Monitor inventory levels and cycle counts to meet company goals and maintain accuracy.
• Identify and drive initiatives for process improvement and cost reduction across materials operations.
• Establish and track Key Operating Indicators (KOIs) to measure departmental success and support strategic goals.
• Manage packaging and freight strategies, including premium freight, routing, and compliance with customer packaging requirements (e.g., CLIPS).
• Review and maintain the Plan for Every Part (PFEP), ensuring appropriate Min/Max inventory levels across all locations.
• Ensure all activities are properly documented and comply with company policies, including emergency evacuation procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by management.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field, MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Bailed Material Operation materials management, including direct supervision of staff, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Owned Material Operation materials management, with demonstrated leadership in staff supervision, ideally in an automotive manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing both office/planning and floor/operational material functions.
• Automotive experience strongly preferred; experience in aerospace, agricultural manufacturing, or similar industries is acceptable.
• Union experience is a plus.
• Experience with Just-In-Time (JIT) materials management a plus, preferably in automotive.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access) and materials management systems such as Trans4M.
• Experience with multiple ERP systems preferred (SAP, CMMMS, or equivalent); knowledge of Ford systems (CMMMS) is a plus.
• Familiarity with departmental procedures and guidelines related to materials operations.
• CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management), CPM (Certified Purchasing Manager), or APP (Associate Professional in Supply Chain Management) certifications are preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Multilingual capabilities are a plus (Spanish preferred).
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple supervisors.
• Experience driving process improvements, cost optimization, and performance metrics.
• Demonstrated ability to drive cultural and operational improvements as a strong, influential leader.
• Ability to thrive in a customer-driven environment and manage urgent issues when they arise.

About Spark Talent Acquisition:

Spark Talent Acquisition is a Michigan-headquartered recruiting and staffing company that connects great talent with great employers. We understand that building the right team is vital to success. Listening to our clients and creating customized workforce strategies is at the core of what we do. We pride ourselves in team development as it matches our purpose as an organization to help people grow.