• Materials Manager

    MW Industries (Wheeling, IL)


    JOB SUMMARY

    The Materials Manager will be responsible for the strategic planning, procurement, storage, and distribution of all materials required for the manufacturing operations of the plant. This critical role encompasses all U.S. domestic purchasing, international imports, and the oversight of all inbound and outbound shipping activities. The Materials Manager will lead and develop the materials team, optimize inventory levels, ensure supply chain efficiency, and contribute significantly to cost reduction and operational excellence. This role requires a hands-on leader who can effectively manage supplier relationships, navigate complex logistics, and drive continuous improvement within the supply chain.

    REPORTING TO

    General Manager

    ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

    Strategic Sourcing & Procurement:

    + Develop and implement comprehensive purchasing strategies for all raw materials, components, and MRO supplies for the US market.

    + Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers, negotiating favorable terms, pricing, and delivery schedules to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.

    + Manage supplier relationships, conduct regular performance reviews, and drive continuous improvement initiatives with key vendors.

    + Lead the purchasing team, providing guidance, training, and performance management.

    Import Management:

    + Oversee all aspects of international imports, including customs compliance, duties, tariffs, and freight forwarding.

    + Ensure all import documentation is accurate and compliant with relevant regulations.

    + Collaborate with customs brokers and freight forwarders to optimize import processes and minimize delays and costs.

    Inventory Management:

    + Develop and implement inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels, minimize obsolescence, and ensure material availability to meet production demands.

    + Utilize ERP/MRP systems to forecast material requirements, generate purchase orders, and track inventory movement.

    + Conduct regular inventory counts and reconcile discrepancies.

    + Implement and maintain robust cycle counting programs.

    Shipping & Receiving Operations:

    + Manage and optimize all inbound and outbound shipping and receiving operations for the plant location.

    + Oversee the loading, unloading, and accurate documentation of all materials.

    + Coordinate with carriers, freight forwarders, and internal departments to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.

    + Ensure compliance with all shipping regulations and safety standards.

    + Supervise shipping and receiving personnel, providing training and ensuring adherence to best practices.

    Planning & Scheduling:

    + Collaborate with production planning to ensure timely material availability to support manufacturing schedules.

    + Develop and manage material plans that align with production forecasts and customer demand.

    + Identify potential supply chain disruptions and develop mitigation strategies.

    Team Leadership & Development:

    + Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing materials team, including buyers, planners, and shipping/receiving personnel.

    + Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and teamwork.

    + Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback and coaching.

    Process Improvement & Cost Reduction:

    + Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements within the supply chain to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and lower costs.

    + Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, inventory optimization, and freight consolidation.

    + Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the materials department.

     

    SKILLS and ABILITIES

     

    + Proven experience managing both domestic and international purchasing, including import processes and customs compliance.

    + Demonstrated expertise in inventory management, planning, and logistics.

    + Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems is essential.

    + Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.

    + Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

    + Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

     

    EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

     

    + Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.

    + 7 years of progressive experience in materials management, supply chain, or procurement within a manufacturing environment, preferably in the fastener or similar discrete manufacturing industry.

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

    Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., and anything over requires help and/or handling equipment. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to stand for periods of time, walk and reach with hands and arms.

    EEOC Statement:

    MW Industries, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

    Equal Opportunity Employer

    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.