Global Materials Leader Position Available In [Unknown county], Georgia

Global Materials Leader 3.2 3.2 out of 5 stars Georgia • Remote The Global Materials Leader is a pivotal cross-functional role responsible for transforming how the company manages inventory and material flow across the enterprise. This individual will lead the development & application of integrated material planning processes—from Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) through to site-level execution—and will drive the organization toward lean, consumption-based planning and purchasing models. This leader is accountable for creating a standardized materials management framework that reduces reliance on traditional forecast-driven MRP and instead implements systems such as Kanban, Min/Max, and visual management to optimize inventory turns, reduce working capital, and improve on-time delivery. The role requires a high degree of operational credibility, a bias for action, and the ability to influence globally distributed teams to adopt lean practices and challenge legacy processes. Essential Duties Strategic Leadership & Transformation Build and deploy a globally aligned material planning and inventory management system based on lean and consumption-driven principles. Lead the transformation from forecast/MRP-based systems to consumption-based replenishment (Kanban, Min/Max) across all sites. Serve as the global inventory KPI owner & deployment of best practices for material planning and inventory optimization aligned with site & corporate objectives. S&OP and Demand/Supply Planning Continue the development of S&OP maturity across the company, focusing on alignment between demand, supply, and financial planning. Facilitate monthly demand aggregation and consensus planning, driving inputs that support both strategic and tactical decisions. Translate long-term demand forecasts into actionable material and capacity plans, with site-level accountability. Site-Level Material Planning Enablement Partner with factory leaders and value stream teams to strengthen on-site planning discipline, capability, and process standardization. Establish and deploy visual management and replenishment systems tailored to the needs of each site. Create feedback loops between floor-level execution and global demand/supply planning functions. Change Management & Capability Development Influence and coach cross-functional teams to adopt lean material management methods. Drive change through leadership, not authority—building trust and buy-in across functions. Mentor material planners and S&OP leaders globally to develop a pipeline of talent and knowledge in lean material management. Essential Requirements Strategic thinker, strong analytical skills, able to synthesize considerable and complex data. Various ERP and MS Excel spreadsheet expertise in managing procurement and planning analytics. Solid, proven organizational, project management and leadership skills. Exceptional interpersonal/written communication skills; can effectively interact with all levels of management. Fluent in English & French (preferred not mandatory). Demonstrated ability to influence teams and programs across functions. Ability to work on multiple projects with limited direction. Solid working knowledge of MRP with working knowledge of SAP/LN preferred. Overall understanding of a manufacturing company’s operations. Willing to travel to US and E.U. for site engagement and coaching (up to 30%). Education & Experience Requirements Bachelor’s degree is required, MBA is preferred. Minimum 10+ years of experience in materials planning, supply chain, or manufacturing operations, with demonstrated leadership in lean transformation. Proven success implementing consumption-based planning (e.g., Kanban, pull systems, Min/Max) in complex manufacturing environments. Strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems. Experience in multi-site global manufacturing operations; ability to work across time zones and cultures. Experience Required Minimum 10+ years of experience in materials planning, supply chain, or manufacturing operations, with demonstrated leadership in lean transformation. Education Required Bachelors or better Preferred Masters or better Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.