Materials Manager in Normal

Job Description

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.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Lead all plant materials and supply chain operations to support production schedules and customer demand.

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• Ensure uninterrupted material flow while maintaining optimal inventory levels and minimizing waste.

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• Drive Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the materials organization.

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• Manage production planning, inventory control, procurement, warehousing, and logistics activities.

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• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery and quality performance.

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• Utilize ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) to manage inventory, planning, and reporting.

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• Develop inventory strategies that balance customer service, production requirements, and cost.

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• Monitor key performance indicators and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.

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• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and company quality standards.

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• Lead, coach, mentor, and develop a team of materials professionals while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

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• Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, and Senior Leadership to achieve plant objectives.

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• Prepare and present operational reports using advanced Excel and Microsoft Office tools.

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Required Qualifications

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• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

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• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading materials or supply chain operations within an automotive JIT manufacturing environment.

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• Demonstrated success managing Just-In-Time (JIT) material flow in a high-volume manufacturing setting.

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• Experience supervising and developing teams of 10 or more employees.

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• Strong knowledge of inventory management, production planning, procurement, logistics, and supplier management.

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• Experience working with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.

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• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to analyze data and develop meaningful reports.

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• Knowledge of automotive quality systems including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.

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• Excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

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• Proven employment stability with a strong track record of success and career progression.

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Qualifications

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• APICS certifications (CPIM or CSCP)

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• ISM Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

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• Experience leading Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen initiatives.

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• Strong background in change management and continuous improvement.

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