Materials Manager

Job Overview:
Search Solution Group is seeking a Materials Manager on behalf of our client, a manufacturing company. The Materials Manager will oversee material flow, inventory management, receiving, stockroom, warehouse, and material coordination functions to ensure materials are available when and where they are needed to support efficient production. This role will lead inventory optimization efforts, improve material handling processes, drive lean initiatives, and develop a high-performing team while maintaining strong inventory accuracy, cost control, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the receipt, restocking, verification, and delivery of materials to production areas to ensure timely and accurate line-side support.
• Ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained to meet production requirements and expected demand.
• Utilize ERP and other business systems to monitor inventory levels, identify shortages, and initiate timely replenishment actions.
• Manage and optimize inventory performance, including inventory turns, stocking strategies, and inventory reduction initiatives.
• Oversee excess and obsolete inventory programs and develop processes to reduce waste and minimize unnecessary inventory investment.
• Lead and manage cycle count programs in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies while maintaining accurate inventory records and system data.
• Establish and enforce cost-control procedures with a focus on loss prevention, efficiency, and waste reduction.
• Proactively communicate material shortages, risks, and operational issues that may impact production or material flow.
• Lead, coach, and develop team members responsible for material flow, receiving, stockrooms, warehouse operations, material coordination, and inventory.
• Assign responsibilities and priorities while managing labor efficiency, direct labor hours, and overtime to meet operational and financial objectives.
• Manage and optimize material replenishment systems, including Kanban, min/max, vendor-managed inventory (VMI), discrete ordering, and consignment programs.
• Administer and continuously improve Kanban systems, including signals, pull systems, audits, and corrective actions.
• Oversee timed material delivery routes to improve material flow, accuracy, responsiveness, and line-side support while reducing transportation and handling waste.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the efficient movement of materials and finished goods.
• Lead lean material flow and inventory management initiatives designed to identify and eliminate waste.
• Utilize structured problem-solving methodologies such as PDCA and 8D to identify root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Lead continuous improvement projects using methodologies such as A3 problem solving.
• Encourage team participation and idea generation related to cost reduction, quality improvement, inventory management, and process improvement.
• Train and support manufacturing personnel on proper procedures for locating, handling, and utilizing production inventory.
• Implement, maintain, and advance 5S standards within materials and inventory areas.
• Continuously evaluate material flow and inventory processes to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, accuracy, and operational performance.
• Monitor the quality and effectiveness of departmental work and processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements Include: Education:

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university in Industrial Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.
• An Associate degree with at least 2 years of related experience may be considered.
• A high school diploma or equivalent with 4+ years of related experience may be considered.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered.

Experience:

• Proven experience in materials management, inventory management, product control, warehouse operations, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Experience leading and developing teams within a manufacturing or operations setting.
• Experience managing inventory accuracy, replenishment, material flow, and production support.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience working with ERP systems and inventory management software.
• Experience with Kanban, min/max inventory, VMI, consignment, or other material replenishment systems preferred.

Skills:

• Strong leadership, mentoring, and coaching abilities.
• Strong inventory and product control skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to identify inventory issues, determine root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Ability to monitor and maintain quality and accuracy of work.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Experience working with ERP systems.
• Ability to analyze data and use operational information to make informed decisions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to inventory accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Valid driver's license.

Certifications:

• Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement certifications are preferred but not required.
• APICS/ASCM or other supply chain-related certifications are a plus.

Knowledge:

• Manufacturing processes and material flow.
• Inventory management and product control.
• Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Kanban and pull-based material systems.
• Inventory replenishment strategies and stocking methods.
• Cycle counting and inventory accuracy practices.
• Warehouse, stockroom, receiving, and material coordination operations.
• ERP systems and inventory management technology.
• Cost control, waste reduction, and operational efficiency.
• 5S standards and workplace organization.
• Structured problem-solving methodologies, including PDCA, 8D, and A3.
• General business practices, technical procedures, and applicable operational requirements.

Key Competencies:

• Leadership & Team Development: Ability to lead, coach, mentor, and motivate employees while establishing clear expectations and accountability.
• Inventory Management: Strong understanding of inventory control, accuracy, replenishment, stocking strategies, and material availability.
• Manufacturing Acumen: Understanding of manufacturing processes and how effective material flow supports production efficiency.
• Lean & Continuous Improvement: Ability to identify waste, improve processes, and implement lean principles throughout materials operations.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze data, identify trends, evaluate problems, and make sound operational decisions.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify root causes and develop practical, sustainable solutions using structured methodologies.
• Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with employees, management, and cross-functional teams.
• Organization: Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, inventory requirements, and operational demands.
• Accountability & Ownership: Self-directed individual who takes ownership of responsibilities and follows issues through to resolution.
• Attention to Detail: Strong focus on accuracy, inventory integrity, documentation, and process compliance.
• Operational Efficiency: Focused on improving productivity, reducing waste, controlling costs, and maximizing the effectiveness of material flow.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic manufacturing environment and adjusting priorities based on production needs.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click the "Apply" button at the top right of your screen. Alternatively, you can email your application to View email address on click.appcast.io . Please ensure to include your resume and any other relevant documents or information that showcase your qualifications and suitability for the role. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and look forward to reviewing your application.

Company Overview:
Company Industry: Manufacturing

Location: Statesville, North Carolina

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Search Solution Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status in our hiring process or employment practices. We believe that a diverse workforce brings unique perspectives and strengths, driving innovation and growth. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to our team.

Disclaimer:
Please note that the job description provided is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to meet the evolving needs of the organization and to ensure the successful completion of projects and objectives.