JOB DESCRIPTION
A JIT Plant Materials Manager needs strong leadership, deep JIT/Lean expertise, ERP proficiency (like SAP), inventory optimization skills, supplier relationship management, and advanced problem-solving. Focusing on flawless material flow, minimal waste, and high quality to support lean manufacturing.
Materials Manager Core Knowledge & Skills
- Just-In-Time (JIT) / Lean Manufacturing: Deep understanding of JIT principles, continuous improvement (Kaizen), waste reduction, and managing material flow in lean environments.
- Inventory Management: Expertise in optimizing inventory levels, demand forecasting, MRP/ERP systems (SAP, Oracle), and balancing costs with production needs.
- Supply Chain Management: Strong procurement, vendor management, logistics, and understanding of global supply chains.
- Production Planning: Ability to integrate material flow with production schedules and manage material budgets.
- Quality Control: Knowledge of quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949) and ensuring material quality for zero defects.
Technical & Software Proficiency
- ERP Systems: High proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning software (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
- Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, Word skills for reporting and analysis.
Leadership & Interpersonal Skills
- Team Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop teams.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills for interacting with staff, suppliers, and senior management.
- Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and decisive problem-solving skills for rapid issue resolution.
- Change Management: Ability to drive continuous improvement and act as a proactive change agent.
Education & Certifications (Preferred)
- Degree: Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or Industrial Engineering.
- Certifications: APICS (CPIM, CSCP) or ISM (CPM) certifications are highly valued indicators of capability.
Experience
- 5+ years experience in automotive JIT supply chain management, or equivalent with bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or logistics
- Proven track record of tenure in each position/employer
- Knowledge of and/or experience with quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949)
- Evidence of supervising teams of at least 10 team members
- Evidence of advanced skillset with Excel
- Excellent verbal and written skills for interacting with staff, suppliers, and senior management
PRIMARY LOCATION
West Point Facility