Materials Manager

Overview

JOB DESCRIPTION The Materials Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day oversight of planning, procurement, logistics and warehousing activities within the operations department of a high-tech, high mix low-volume manufacturing environment. This role ensures the efficient flow of materials and components, optimises inventory levels and supports the delivery of high-quality products to customers on time and within budget.

JOB DESCRIPTION The Materials Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day oversight of planning, procurement, logistics and warehousing activities within the operations department of a high-tech, high mix low-volume manufacturing environment. This role ensures the efficient flow of materials and components, optimises inventory levels and supports the delivery of high-quality products to customers on time and within budget.

• Strategic management of the team leaders in planning, procurement and warehouse departments fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth.
• Lead and coordinate the planning function, ensuring production schedules are aligned with customer requirements and resource availability.
• Manage the procurement process, including supplier selection, negotiation, and relationship management to secure quality materials at competitive prices.
• Oversee all warehouse operations, ensuring effective inventory management, accurate stock records, and timely movement of goods.
• Ownership of the logistics and shipping department including delivery performance and compliance.
• Own the department budget, allocating strategic spending and ensuring all functions stay within budget.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, production, quality, and finance teams to support new product introductions and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and implement best practices in planning, procurement, logistics and warehousing to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators relating to inventory, turns, supplier performance and delivery reliability.
• Ensure compliance with relevant health, safety, and environmental standards.

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or a related discipline, or equivalent significant industry experience.
• Proven multi-year experience in planning, purchasing, and warehouse management ideally within a high-tech or advanced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and inventory management software.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse data, identify trends, and implement process improvements.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory and compliance requirements.

• Experience with Oracle would be a major advantage
• Understanding of low-volume, high-mix production processes and associated supply chain complexities.

• Demonstrated problem solving and work prioritisation skills.
• Ability to keep up to date with technology and apply to business strategic plan.
• Ability to achieve results independently or working with others.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with end-users, management, and staff.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities involving internal customer requests and demands.
• Ability to excel in a cross-organisational, cross cultural, global team environment.
• Handle special assignments promptly and professionally.
• Set a high standard of ethics, professionalism, and competency.

Working conditions typical of a climate controlled and professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers.

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Scotland EHS standards.

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within…