Material Manager

The Materials Manager is responsible for leading all purchasing, materials planning, inventory control, and supplier management activities in support of electronic manufacturing operations. This role oversees the Purchasing, Planning, Inventory Control, and Shipping/Receiving functions, including supervision, training, performance management, and development of team members.

The Materials Manager ensures the timely procurement and availability of materials to meet production schedules, customer demand, and inventory objectives. This position develops sourcing strategies, manages supplier relationships, and drives continuous improvement in cost, quality, delivery, and inventory performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise Buyers, Purchasing personnel, Planning team, Shipping/Receiving, and Inventory Control staff.
• Establish departmental goals aligned with inventory targets, sales forecasts, and business objectives.
• Manage procurement activities to ensure material availability while maintaining optimal inventory levels.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, delivery schedules, and supplier agreements to achieve cost savings and efficiency.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to support operational needs.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with Production, Sales, Quality, Inventory Control, and Accounting teams.
• Review and approve bids, supplier selections, and purchasing decisions.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to improve cost, quality, and delivery performance.
• Manage Master Production Scheduling (MPS) and Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes.
• Ensure accurate ERP system transactions related to purchasing and inventory control.
• Resolve material shortages, supplier issues, and supply chain disruptions.
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to purchasing, inventory, and supplier performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and cost-reduction strategies.

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 5–7 years of progressive experience in purchasing, materials management, or supply chain within a manufacturing environment.
• 3 years of supervisory or management experience.
• Experience in electronics manufacturing services (EMS), PCB assembly, or high-tech manufacturing preferred.
• Strong knowledge of procurement, inventory control, planning, and supply chain principles.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of inventory metrics and forecasting methods.
• Must be eligible to work with ITAR-controlled data.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment:

• On-site position with regular in-office attendance required.
• Ability to lift up to 15 lbs occasionally.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer work.
• Occasional bending, squatting, or reaching.
• Ability to travel occasionally for supplier or procurement needs.