Upstream Material Flow Specialist

Overview

This role is responsible for analyzing and improving upstream supply chain performance across a global network of suppliers, distribution points, and manufacturing sites. The individual partners closely with Procurement, Supply Chain, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Engineering, and Operations teams to understand current state processes and identify improvement opportunities. The role requires strong analytical capability to assess material flow, inventory positioning, and replenishment methods, combined with the ability to lead and deliver cross-functional improvement initiatives.

The individual will apply Lean principles, Six Sigma tools, and structured problem-solving techniques to design future state solutions and ensure successful implementation.

• The primary objective of this role is to analyze and optimize upstream material flow across the global supply network, ensuring alignment with Res Med’s operational and strategic business goals
• Conduct end-to-end value stream mapping of material flows from suppliers through inbound logistics to manufacturing, identifying inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and waste
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to improve flow, reduce variability, and eliminate non-value-added activities across the supply chain
• Analyze material flow data including lead times, inventory levels, demand variability, and supplier performance to identify improvement opportunities
• Design and implement replenishment strategies including kanban, min/max, pull systems, and other flow-based methodologies to optimize inventory and service levels
• Partner with Procurement and Supply Chain teams to align supplier capabilities and ordering strategies with optimized material flow designs
• Develop data models and analytical tools to support decision making related to inventory positioning, safety stock, and network flow optimization
• Lead cross-functional projects to implement identified improvements, ensuring delivery against defined timelines, scope, and measurable outcomes
• Monitor and track performance of implemented solutions, ensuring sustainability of improvements and continuous optimization
• Standardize best practices, tools, and methodologies for material flow design and replenishment across the global network
• Effectively partner and collaborate across GSA and the wider Res Med business including Procurement, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Engineering, Planning, and Logistics
• Communicate insights, recommendations, and project outcomes to senior stakeholders, influencing decision making and driving alignment

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations, or related field
• Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in supply chain, operations, or manufacturing with a strong focus on material flow, inventory management, or process optimization
• Deep expertise in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies with demonstrated application in supply chain or manufacturing environments
• Strong experience with value stream mapping and end-to-end process analysis
• Proven experience designing and implementing replenishment strategies such as kanban, min/max, and pull systems
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and translate insights into actionable improvements
• Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional projects and delivering measurable results
• Ability to influence stakeholders across Procurement, Engineering, and Operations without direct authority

• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt, Black Belt), or equivalent
• Experience working in a global supply chain environment
• Experience in medical device, regulated manufacturing, or high precision production environments
• Familiarity with supply chain planning systems, ERP platforms, and data analytics tools
• Addresses issues with impact beyond own area based on knowledge of supply chain and related disciplines
• Analysis of situations or data requires evaluation of different factors and understanding of current business trends