The Materials Manager is responsible for leading the end-to-end materials planning function to ensure optimal inventory levels, uninterrupted production, and alignment with customer demand. This role drives strategic planning initiatives, improves supply chain performance, and partners cross-functionally with Operations, Procurement, Sales, and Finance to balance service, cost, and working capital. Key Responsibilities Lead and develop the materials planning team across multiple sites. Own portions of the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) materials alignment to ensure supply meets demand. Establish and manage inventory strategies, including safety stock, reorder points, and lead time optimization. Drive continuous improvement in material flow, inventory accuracy, and planning processes. Partner with Procurement to ensure supplier performance meets service, cost, and lead-time expectations. Work with Finance to establish plant-level production budgets aligned with demand forecasts, capacity constraints, and cost targets. Coordinate with Operations to align production schedules with material availability. Analyze demand variability and implement mitigation strategies to minimize stockouts and excess inventory. Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs) such as, service levels, forecast accuracy, and obsolescence. Lead capacity and constraint planning related to materials availability. Ensure ERP/MRP system integrity and drive enhancements to planning tools and processes. Support new product launches, transitions, and discontinuations from a materials perspective. Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions. Lead cross-functional initiatives to reduce spoilage, excess, and obsolete inventory. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business, or related field (MBA preferred). 8-12+ years of experience in materials planning, supply chain, or operations within a manufacturing environment. 3-5+ years of leadership experience managing teams and/or multi-site responsibilities. Strong expertise in MRP/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, JD Edwards). Proven ability to lead S&OP or integrated business planning processes. Deep understanding of inventory management, demand planning, and supply planning concepts. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset. Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership abilities.