Director, Materials Planning & Work Prep

Rittal LLC•Urbana, OH

About The Position

The Director of Work Preparation and Planning is responsible for establishing internal logistics, tactical purchasing, planning, industrial engineering, and Lean strategies. This role provides leadership and guidance on all aspects of work preparation, planning, and the Rittal Production System, ensuring operational excellence and continuous improvement across supply chain and production processes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field
Equivalent experience in supply chain, industrial engineering, and lean management leadership
Expertise in SIOP, supply chain management, order management, manufacturing, Lean, and logistics
Experience in sheet metal fabrication, coating, and manual assembly of electrical cabinets
Proven success in logistics, production planning, lean manufacturing, and tactical purchasing
Knowledge of continuous improvement methods (Lean, Six Sigma)
Deep SAP knowledge required
Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills
Proficiency in MS Office tools
Ability to work in a matrix environment

Nice To Haves

APICS, ASCM, Six Sigma Black Belt

Responsibilities

Establish internal logistics, tactical purchasing, planning, industrial engineering, and Lean strategies
Advise company leadership on work preparation, planning, and production systems
Provide performance management leadership to drive employee engagement
Inspire and maintain a strong safety culture and safe working environment
Ensure compliance with policies and procedures
Plan, implement, and control supply chain operations from origin to consumption
Build sustainable logistics networks aligned with local and HQ strategic goals
Oversee inventory management, capacity management, and new product introduction processes
Optimize network and warehouse operations for best-in-class performance
Drive internal logistics optimization projects to improve inventory accuracy and parts supply
Ensure continuous material supply and proper inventory levels
Oversee production planning processes and teams
Optimize production capacity using SAP functionality for steady production flow
Support improvements in lot sizes and SIOP processes
Enhance data collection, analysis, and communication for better decision-making
Provide prototype support and ensure accurate BOM and routings for specials
Perform MTM studies and maintain SAP updates for routing changes
Determine routings for cost analysis on new products and special projects
Identify and implement production cost improvement opportunities
Support operations with detailed cost analysis for productivity gains
Develop Lean Management roadmap and deploy Rittal Production System model
Drive Lean activities including Shop Floor Management, Kaizen events, and Lean culture
Provide guidance for 6S and Continuous Improvement programs