Job Details

JOB DESCRIPTION

A JIT Plant Materials Manager needs strong leadership, deep JIT/Lean expertise, ERP proficiency (like SAP), inventory optimization skills, supplier relationship management, and advanced problem-solving. Focusing on flawless material flow, minimal waste, and high quality to support lean manufacturing.

Materials Manager Core Knowledge & Skills

• Just-In-Time (JIT) / Lean Manufacturing: Deep understanding of JIT principles, continuous improvement (Kaizen), waste reduction, and managing material flow in lean environments.
• Inventory Management: Expertise in optimizing inventory levels, demand forecasting, MRP/ERP systems (SAP, Oracle), and balancing costs with production needs.
• Supply Chain Management: Strong procurement, vendor management, logistics, and understanding of global supply chains.
• Production Planning: Ability to integrate material flow with production schedules and manage material budgets.
• Quality Control: Knowledge of quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949) and ensuring material quality for zero defects.

• ERP Systems: High proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning software (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, Word skills for reporting and analysis.

• Team Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop teams.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills for interacting with staff, suppliers, and senior management.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and decisive problem-solving skills for rapid issue resolution.
• Change Management: Ability to drive continuous improvement and act as a proactive change agent.

• Degree: Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or Industrial Engineering.
• Certifications: APICS (CPIM, CSCP) or ISM (CPM) certifications are highly valued indicators of capability.

• 5+ years experience in automotive JIT supply chain management, or equivalent with bachelor's degree in supply chain management or logistics
• Proven track record of tenure in each position/employer
• Knowledge of and/or experience with quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949)
• Evidence of supervising teams of at least 10 team members
• Evidence of advanced skillset with Excel
• Excellent verbal and written skills for interacting with staff, suppliers, and senior management