About the role
Description
Summary
The Materials Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of materials management, including purchasing, planning, inventory control and stockroom operations. This role ensures efficient procurement, accurate inventory levels, and timely material availability to support production and customer requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Supervision
Directly supervise planning, inventory control and stockroom teams.
Hire, train, evaluate, and develop staff to meet departmental goals.
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Alignment with Purchasing & Vendor Management-Working directly with SC and vendors
Evaluate vendor quotations and negotiate contracts to ensure quality, price, and delivery standards.
Maintain ethical and transparent vendor relationships.
Planning & Scheduling
Oversee material planning and production scheduling to meet forecasted demand.
Collaborate with production and sales teams to align material availability with operational needs.
Inventory Management
Establish and monitor inventory control systems to maintain optimal stock levels.
Minimize carrying costs and reduce excess or obsolete inventory.
Ensure accurate inventory records through regular audits and cycle counts.
Stockroom Oversight
Ensure receiving processes timely and accurate receipt of goods.
Maintain organized and efficient stockroom operations.
Ensure compliance with quality and safety standards during material handling.
Process Improvement & Reporting
Analyze supply chain performance and implement improvements to reduce lead times and costs.
Utilize ERP systems to manage procurement and inventory data.
Serve as single point contact for all customers expedite request impacting the South Bend DC
Proactively review open orders to identify opportunities for immediate shipments
Work with Customer service and sales team to obtain approvals for partial shipments, when appropriate
Monitor performance for backlog status and same day shipment performance
Requirements
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, or related field.
Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing materials management.
At east 3 years of supervisory experience; management training preferred.
Skills & Abilities
Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
Knowledge of procurement, inventory control, and production planning best practices.
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit, stand, walk, and lift up to 25 lbs occasionally.
Moderate noise environment typical of a manufacturing setting.
Prepare reports and metrics to support business planning and decision-making.