Materials Planning Manager

Company Description PPL Corporation’s family of companies provides electricity and natural gas that power customers’ daily lives. Its high-performing, award-winning utilities focus on building smarter, more resilient, and more dynamic power grids. The organization is committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions that meet evolving customer and community needs. PPL fosters an environment that values innovation, reliability, and long-term energy stewardship, offering professionals the opportunity to help shape the future of the energy sector.

Role Description The Materials Planning Manager is a full-time, hybrid role based in Allentown, PA, with flexibility for part-time work from home. This role oversees end-to-end materials planning to ensure timely and cost-effective availability of materials that support utility operations and projects. Day-to-day responsibilities include forecasting material demand, coordinating production and procurement schedules, managing inventory levels, and optimizing material flow across the supply chain. The manager collaborates with operations, procurement, engineering, and finance teams to align material plans with project timelines, budget constraints, and reliability targets. The role also involves monitoring performance metrics, identifying process improvements, mitigating supply risks, and implementing best practices in materials management and inventory control.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in Demand Planning and Production Planning to forecast needs and align material availability with operational and project schedules.
• Proficiency in Materials Management and Inventory Control to maintain optimal stock levels, minimize shortages, and reduce excess or obsolete inventory.
• Advanced Analytical Skills to interpret data, develop forecasts, track key performance indicators, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams, with strong communication and collaboration skills across operations, procurement, and finance.
• Experience with ERP or supply chain planning systems and proficiency in spreadsheet and data analysis tools.
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, operations, engineering, business, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., APICS/ASCM) is a plus.
• Background in utilities, energy, or heavy industry is beneficial, along with demonstrated skills in process improvement and continuous improvement methodologies.