Materials Manager

Dana Incorporated•Dry Ridge, KY

About The Position

Dana is a global leader in the supply of highly engineered driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies that improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles with both conventional and alternative-energy powertrains. Serving two primary markets – passenger vehicle and commercial truck equipment – Dana provides the world's original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with local product and service support through a network of nearly 100 engineering, manufacturing, and distribution facilities. The Materials Manager plays a strategic role in managing supplier relationships, optimizing inventory, and aligning material availability with production demands to support operational efficiency, cost control, and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this role is to oversee the procurement, storage, and distribution of materials required for manufacturing operations, ensuring that the right materials are available at the right time and in the right quantity.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
8+ years of experience
Complete understanding of production planning, MRP and ERP systems
Ability to work with statistical analyses and possess financial acumen
Proven problem-solving skills and the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines
Ability to influence, escalate issues and ideas, and persuade team and positively manage conflict
Track record of innovative and creative approach to drive cost reduction
Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, with demonstrated people management abilities and ability to work in a team environment
Transportation and Logistics experience required
Leadership and Team Management – Ability to lead, motivate, and manage a team in a fast-paced production environment.
Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing – Skilled in identifying inefficiencies and applying Lean principles (e.g., 5S, Kaizen) to improve processes.
Inventory and Materials Management – Proficient in managing material flow, inventory control, and using ERP/MRP systems.

Responsibilities

Oversee and lead the execution of production planning and scheduling.
Develop best practice material replenishment systems to ensure material availability to achieve production plan while meeting inventory reduction targets.
Manage cycle count systems to ensure accuracy of inventory transactions throughout the entire inventory value stream.
Utilize Lean concepts for inventory flow optimization.
Manage logistics partners to ensure freight targets are achieved.
Manage customer scorecards/rating systems and ensure requirements are met.
Assists in formulation of business plan including capital improvements and projection of plant production capabilities.
Lead all environmental material initiatives and material safety related items.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to drive and accomplish production goals.
Ensure prompt and economical receipt of materials, supplies and parts in alignment with plant and Company standards.
Champion Materials team DOS activities to establish a continuous improvement culture.
Define objectives, allocate resources, monitor activities, allocate fair rewards and provide development paths for the MP&L team.