Materials Manager

We are seeking an experienced Materials Manager to lead all aspects of plant materials, inventory, and supply chain operations within a fast-paced, JIT automotive manufacturing environment. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring uninterrupted material flow, optimizing inventory levels, supporting lean manufacturing initiatives, and developing a high-performing materials team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all plant materials and supply chain operations to support production schedules and customer demand.
• Ensure uninterrupted material flow while maintaining optimal inventory levels and minimizing waste.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the materials organization.
• Manage production planning, inventory control, procurement, warehousing, and logistics activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery and quality performance.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) to manage inventory, planning, and reporting.
• Develop inventory strategies that balance customer service, production requirements, and cost.
• Monitor key performance indicators and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and company quality standards.
• Lead, coach, mentor, and develop a team of materials professionals while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, and Senior Leadership to achieve plant objectives.
• Prepare and present operational reports using advanced Excel and Microsoft Office tools.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading materials or supply chain operations within an automotive JIT manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success managing Just-In-Time (JIT) material flow in a high-volume manufacturing setting.
• Experience supervising and developing teams of 10 or more employees.
• Strong knowledge of inventory management, production planning, procurement, logistics, and supplier management.
• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to analyze data and develop meaningful reports.
• Knowledge of automotive quality systems including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
• Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven employment stability with a strong track record of success and career progression.

Preferred Qualifications

• APICS certifications (CPIM or CSCP)
• Experience leading Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen initiatives.
• Strong background in change management and continuous improvement.