Materials Planning Specialist

Nexans•Charleston, SC

About The Position

The Materials Planning Specialist manages raw material planning and procurement, maintains accurate supply chain master data, and supports the plant’s metals hedging activities (MHO). This role focuses on ensuring material availability, data accuracy, and efficient supply chain operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience
5–7 years of experience in materials planning, procurement, or supply chain roles
Working knowledge of SAP MM & PP modules (ECC6 or similar preferred)
Strong analytical and organizational skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Ability to work collaboratively across functions
Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
Demonstrated professionalism and accountability

Responsibilities

Determine raw material requirements based on production plans and inventory strategy; define quantities and delivery schedules.
Communicate regularly with suppliers and issue requirements through purchase orders and delivery schedules.
Develop and share demand forecasts with suppliers and internal teams.
Support mid- and long-term forecasting for budgeting and supplier negotiations.
Manage inventory levels to meet targets for value and coverage while maintaining operational efficiency.
Establish and adjust safety stock levels and planning parameters.
Monitor and control premium freight costs through proactive planning.
Evaluate feasibility of material plans and assess impacts of engineering or scheduling changes.
Support implementation of changes to maintain material availability.
Track open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery and resolve discrepancies.
Maintain accurate supplier confirmations and delivery dates in SAP.
Identify potential supply risks and escalate as needed.
Create and maintain supply chain master data for materials and projects.
Maintain ERP/MRP planning parameters to support accurate order generation.
Serve as a key SAP user, providing first-level support to supply chain and production teams.
Promote best practices in data accuracy and system usage.
Support metals hedging activities and risk monitoring for the plant.
Provide pricing and market information to sales and purchasing teams as needed.
Track COREX metal exposure and inventory levels.
Maintain hedging tools and assist with daily reporting for Copper, Aluminum, and Lead.
Support month-end reconciliation and reporting activities.
Participate in Metals Risk Management training and support internal stakeholders.
Follow all plant safety procedures and company policies.
Support continuous improvement initiatives within supply chain operations.
Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 standards.
Update work instructions as processes evolve.
Analyze ERP/MRP data and prepare reports to support decision-making.
Assist with training and provide backup support during absences and peak periods.