Materials Manager

About the position

The Materials Manager will be responsible for the strategic planning, procurement, storage, and distribution of all materials required for the manufacturing operations of the plant. This critical role encompasses all U.S. domestic purchasing, international imports, and the oversight of all inbound and outbound shipping activities. The Materials Manager will lead and develop the materials team, optimize inventory levels, ensure supply chain efficiency, and contribute significantly to cost reduction and operational excellence. This role requires a hands-on leader who can effectively manage supplier relationships, navigate complex logistics, and drive continuous improvement within the supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive purchasing strategies for all raw materials, components, and MRO supplies for the US market.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers, negotiating favorable terms, pricing, and delivery schedules to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Manage supplier relationships, conduct regular performance reviews, and drive continuous improvement initiatives with key vendors.
• Lead the purchasing team, providing guidance, training, and performance management.
• Oversee all aspects of international imports, including customs compliance, duties, tariffs, and freight forwarding.
• Ensure all import documentation is accurate and compliant with relevant regulations.
• Collaborate with customs brokers and freight forwarders to optimize import processes and minimize delays and costs.
• Develop and implement inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels, minimize obsolescence, and ensure material availability to meet production demands.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to forecast material requirements, generate purchase orders, and track inventory movement.
• Conduct regular inventory counts and reconcile discrepancies.
• Implement and maintain robust cycle counting programs.
• Manage and optimize all inbound and outbound shipping and receiving operations for the plant location.
• Oversee the loading, unloading, and accurate documentation of all materials.
• Coordinate with carriers, freight forwarders, and internal departments to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.
• Ensure compliance with all shipping regulations and safety standards.
• Supervise shipping and receiving personnel, providing training and ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Collaborate with production planning to ensure timely material availability to support manufacturing schedules.
• Develop and manage material plans that align with production forecasts and customer demand.
• Identify potential supply chain disruptions and develop mitigation strategies.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing materials team, including buyers, planners, and shipping/receiving personnel.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and teamwork.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback and coaching.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements within the supply chain to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and lower costs.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, inventory optimization, and freight consolidation.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the materials department.

Requirements

• Proven experience managing both domestic and international purchasing, including import processes and customs compliance.
• Demonstrated expertise in inventory management, planning, and logistics.
• Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems is essential.
• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 7 years of progressive experience in materials management, supply chain, or procurement within a manufacturing environment, preferably in the fastener or similar discrete manufacturing industry.