Position Summary:

The Plant Materials Manager is responsible for overseeing all materials, inventory, and supply chain operations within a JIT automotive manufacturing environment. This role ensures uninterrupted production, optimized inventory levels, supplier performance, and compliance with quality systems while driving continuous improvement and lean initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Must have experience in the Automotive Industry
• Manage material flow to support JIT manufacturing and production schedules
• Optimize inventory levels through effective demand planning and MRP processes
• Balance inventory investment with operational requirements
• Lead procurement, supplier performance, and inbound logistics
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure on-time delivery and quality
• Mitigate supply chain risks and resolve material shortages
• Align material planning with production schedules and capacity
• Manage material budgets and cost controls
• Partner cross-functionally with operations, quality, and manufacturing teams
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 requirements
• Support zero-defect initiatives through supplier quality oversight
• Maintain documentation and audit readiness
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Advanced Excel skills required; PowerPoint and Word for reporting and presentations
• Lead, coach, and develop materials and supply chain teams
• Proven experience supervising teams of 10+ employees
• Strong verbal and written communication skills across all levels
• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to lead change and drive continuous improvement initiatives

Education & Certifications (Preferred)

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or Industrial Engineering
• APICS (CPIM, CSCP) or ISM (CPM) certifications strongly preferred
• 5+ years of experience in automotive JIT materials or supply chain management
• Proven employment stability and progression
• Hands-on experience with quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949)
• Demonstrated leadership within materials, planning, or supply chain teams
• Advanced analytical and Excel skillset