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. Technical & Software Proficiency ERP Systems: High proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning software (SAP, Oracle, etc.). Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, Word skills for reporting and analysis. Leadership & Interpersonal Skills 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. Education & Certifications (Preferred) 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. Experience 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
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Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees