Supply Chain Manager (Manufacturing)

Supply Chain Manager (Manufacturing)

Uster Technologies is looking for a strategic Supply Chain Manager to oversee our production-driven supply operations. You will function as the “owner” of strategic initiatives, managing day-to-day activities while ensuring our supply chain remains agile and accurate. This role requires a leader who excels in complex equipment manufacturing, balances technical aptitude with proactive risk management, and lives by our global purpose and values.

Who We Are

• Founded in 1875 and headquartered in Switzerland, Uster Technologies is now a part of Toyota Industries.
• We are a global provider of quality control equipment for the textile industry in which we are regarded as the benchmark for quality.
• Our Knoxville team has delivered locally developed innovations to customers around the globe for the last 50 years.
• Our instruments play a role in the manufacture of nearly every cotton textile product produced on the planet.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Manage all day-to-day sourcing, purchasing, planning, and shipping. Ensure timely material master planning and distribution of the schedule.
• ERP System Mastery (IFS): Serve as the IFS Key User for SCM. Oversee the effectiveness of the entire system, including part master data, purchase pricing, and lead-time accuracy.
• Vendor Performance: Manage relationships with suppliers, conducting regular audits to ensure quality standards and lead-time reliability.
• Risk Mitigation: Develop contingency plans for supply disruptions, including identifying alternative sources for critical manufacturing components.
• Cost Management: Track and report on Total Landed Cost (TLC) and manufacturing variances to maintain healthy profit margins.
• Inventory & Warehouse Management: Maintain inventory integrity, including shelf life and revision control. Co-own cycle counting and annual physical inventory results.
• Performance & Reporting: Publish monthly reports on material expense projections and KPIs. Proactively initiate corrective actions for quality, delivery, and cost variances.
• Process Improvement: Lead Lean and Kaizen projects. Create work instructions and policies to continuously improve and align processes with the Global Skill Group Team.

Leadership & Team Management

• Direct Supervision: Lead and motivate reports by setting clear objectives, identifying training needs, and conducting bi-weekly 1:1s and annual reviews.
• Accountability: Hold all direct reports to high standards of integrity and accuracy. Administer coaching and corrective action when appropriate.
• Influence: Effectively engage others to achieve results even in the absence of authority, communicating professionally across all levels of the organization and global partners.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: BS Degree in Supply Chain Management or other relevant discipline
• Experience: 5 years in a manufacturing-specific supply chain leadership role (e.g., Automotive, Electronics, or Industrial Goods).
• Soft Skills: Strong organizational skills with the ability to lead effectively under stress. A "lead by example" mentality regarding company values and USTER standards.
• Communication: Highly effective at interfacing with global stakeholders and navigating negotiation/problem-solving with third-party vendors.
• Technical Proficiency: Expert-level skills in ERP (IFS preferred) and MS Office. Ability to analyze complex financial and performance data.
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of manufacturing workflows, bill of materials (BOM) management, and international freight (Incoterms).
• Certifications: APICS (CPIM/CSCP) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt is highly desirable.

Core Values

• Role model for company values.
• Commitment to delivering consistent high performance.
• Function as a proactive owner of strategic decisions.

Why Join Us?

• You aren't just managing orders; you function as the "owner" of strategic supply chain initiatives, from raw material sourcing through the final delivery of manufactured goods.
• Our "Think Quality" mindset empowers people to create a better future for the textile industry through innovative, end-to-end solutions.
• Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and full benefits package.
• As part of an international high-tech company with a 150-year history, you will interface with global suppliers and stakeholders, managing the complexity of a supply chain that keeps textile mills running at peak efficiency worldwide.

Position Type:

• Full-time
• Traditional Monday-Friday schedule.
• ONSITE located in Knoxville, Tennessee.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required including internationally. Total required travel is less than 10%.

AA/EOE M/F/D/V