Operations Planning Manager

Join Kistler – A Global Leader in Measurement Technology!

At Kistler, we’re revolutionizing industries with our cutting-edge dynamic measurement technology, helping customers optimize products and processes. From automobile development to smart factories, our Swiss-designed sensor solutions are driving the future of electrified drive technology, industrial automation, and emission reduction.

Purpose of the Position

The Operations Planning Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of production planning, purchasing, inventory control, and work preparation across the Kistler’s Amherst NY and Novi MI locations. This role ensures that materials, capacity, and resources are aligned to meet customer demand efficiently, cost-effectively, and on schedule.

The ideal candidate combines strong analytical skills, operational discipline, and leadership ability to optimize performance while maintaining high standards of data integrity and process excellence within the ERP system.

Main Tasks

Production Planning

• Develop, implement, and maintain the production schedule aligned with sales forecasts, capacity, and inventory targets.
• Coordinate with Production Execution, Engineering, and Sales to balance customer demand, production efficiency, and resource utilization.
• Lead the capacity planning and load-leveling processes to ensure on-time delivery and optimal use of plant assets.
• Monitor production performance and adjust plans proactively to manage constraints and risks.

Work Preparation / Master Data Management

• Oversee creation and maintenance of bills of materials (BOMs), routings, item masters, and production parameters in the ERP system.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all production-related master data to support planning, costing, and reporting.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality to implement engineering changes and maintain configuration control.
• Champion ERP best practices and continuous improvement of system data integrity.

Purchasing (Strategic and Tactical)

• Lead the purchasing function, ensuring timely procurement of raw materials, components, and indirect supplies to meet production and inventory targets.
• Develop and manage supplier relationships, including vendor evaluation, negotiation, and performance monitoring.
• Execute strategic sourcing initiatives to reduce cost, improve quality, and ensure supply continuity.
• Coordinate tactical buying activities to maintain adequate supply levels and respond to changing demand.
• Support supplier development and collaboration for lead time reduction and process improvement.

Stockroom / Inventory Management

• Oversee stockroom operations, material flow, and inventory control processes at both BUF and NOV sites.
• Ensure accurate cycle counting, inventory accuracy, and ERP reconciliation.
• Optimize inventory levels to balance availability, working capital, and space utilization.
• Implement and sustain lean inventory management practices (Kanban, Min/Max, reorder point systems).
• Monitor and report key performance indicators (inventory turns, on-time availability, stock accuracy).

Multi-Site Leadership (BUF and NOV)

• Ensure consistency of planning, procurement, and inventory processes across both locations.
• Lead, develop, and mentor teams in each facility to foster collaboration and operational alignment.
• Act as a key interface between BUF and NOV operations to coordinate priorities, resolve conflicts, and drive continuous improvement.

Requirements Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Industrial Engineering, or Business Administration (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience in production planning, purchasing, and inventory management within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar) and master data management principles.
• Proven experience leading multi-site or cross-functional supply chain teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships and implement sourcing strategies.
• Proficient in Excel and data analysis; ability to interpret KPIs and drive decisions based on data.
• Certification such as APICS CPIM, CSCP, or equivalent is an asset.

Why Kistler?

At Kistler, we value your expertise and offer opportunities for professional growth in a global environment. Our competitive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with a 4% company match
• Generous personal and vacation time

Join a team that’s shaping the future of measurement technology. We look forward to meeting you!

Kistler Instrument Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.