Materials Manager

Title: Materials Manager

Location: Chattanooga, TN

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Position Overview

The Materials Manager is responsible for leading all materials management functions at a manufacturing site, including procurement, inventory control, warehousing, and distribution. This role drives operational excellence across supply chain functions within a process-driven, engineered-to-order manufacturing environment.

The position oversees cost reduction initiatives, supplier performance, inventory accuracy, and on-time delivery metrics while leading a team of buyers, planners, and material coordinators.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee procurement, inventory control, warehousing, and distribution operations
• Lead supplier negotiations and cost reduction initiatives
• Maintain >99% inventory accuracy through a robust cycle count program
• Ensure 95% fill rate and 99% on-time delivery for aftermarket orders
• Develop and implement best-in-class materials management processes
• Lead, mentor, and develop 4 direct and 10 indirect reports
• Align material planning with the master production schedule
• Track KPIs and communicate shortages, risks, and improvement initiatives to leadership
• Support ERP and system improvement projects to ensure accurate materials planning and execution

Required Qualifications

• 10 years of progressive experience in materials management within manufacturing or industrial OEM environments
• Proven expertise in purchasing, procurement, and supplier negotiations
• Demonstrated cost reduction and inventory management experience (cycle counts, logistics, warehouse control)
• Prior people management experience with full accountability for hiring, performance management, and team development
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s or advanced degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Finance, or related field preferred

Preferred Qualifications

• ASCM/APICS certification (CSCP, CPIM, CLTD) or ISM certification
• Experience with Oracle ERP systems