Manager, Materials

FM Industries•Fremont, CA

15d

About The Position

Responsible for overseeing and executing all aspects of materials management across one to two manufacturing sites. This role ensures the effective procurement and flow of materials, with a strong emphasis on expense and outside processing (OP) purchasing, vendor management, and cross-functional collaboration. The Materials Manager will also play a key role in supporting customer interactions and ensuring alignment with quality standards. Managing processes necessary to ensure all customer requirements are properly addressed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
8–10 years of experience in materials management, purchasing, or supply chain operations, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of expense and OP purchasing processes.
Proficiency in database management and ERP systems.
Demonstrated experience in vendor negotiation, pricing analysis, and escalation management.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively across all levels of the organization and with external partners.
Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills.

Nice To Haves

APICS certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all materials-related functions for assigned site(s), including oversight of site-level buyers and alignment with purchasing strategies.
Oversee and execute expense and outside processing (OP) purchasing activities to meet production and operational requirements.
Manage vendor relationships, including pricing reviews, changes in vendor pricing, and escalation resolution to ensure timely material delivery.
Maintain accurate materials databases and ensure traceability of materials in compliance with ISO 9001 standards and the company’s Quality Management System (QMS).
Ensure effective use of database tools, including leveraging MRP-driven buying suggestions, and continuously refine database accuracy and performance using system tools.
Monitor backlog and ensure timely procurement and scheduling of materials to meet customer requirements.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Sales, Program Management, Operations, Engineering, and Quality, to align material planning with production schedules and resolve material-related issues.
Support customer calls and meetings, providing updates on material availability, delivery timelines, and issue resolution.
Proactively manage long lead-time components and implement risk mitigation strategies such as dual sourcing and buffer stock.
Identify and implement cost savings opportunities through supplier negotiations, alternate sourcing, and value engineering initiatives.
Oversee inventory performance, including responsibility for inventory turns, safety stock levels, and adherence to in-stock agreements.
Manage vendor-managed inventory (VMI) and consignment programs to optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce working capital.
Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management for materials Team Members.