The Lead Material Planner will report to the Manager of Materials Planning and will be responsible for the execution of daily raw material planning activities. This role focuses on ensuring raw material availability to meet organizational objectives while leveraging subject matter expertise in materials management. The Lead Material Planner will play a pivotal role in coordinating internal functions to ensure seamless supply chain planning and will lead materials management projects and initiatives, including new product launches.

• Take ownership of designated materials, serving as a subject matter expert in specific areas of planning such as bulk buying, MRP training, and inventory management.

• Collaborate with the Manager of Materials Planning to review work and provide support in addressing key issues as needed.

• Lead, train, and motivate a team of material planners to ensure efficient and effective materials planning operations.

• Set clear performance expectations, establish key performance indicators (KPIs), and conduct regular performance reviews to drive team performance.

• Foster a positive work environment, encourage collaboration, and support professional development opportunities for team members.

• Develop and implement comprehensive materials planning strategies to support production schedules and optimize inventory levels.

• Implement/ utilize MRP/ERP tools effectively to ensure integrated planning and efficient materials management practices.

• Manage inventory levels through strategic ordering practices, stocking policies, and proactive obsolescence management.

• Ensure availability of raw materials while meeting financial targets for inventory, carrying costs, and spending.

• Serve as the escalation point for material shortages and lead resolution efforts when material planners encounter challenges.

• Collaborate closely with procurement, operations, logistics, and finance teams to understand production requirements, capacity constraints, and lead times.

• Adjust materials planning activities accordingly to ensure seamless production flow aligned with business objectives and priorities.

• Lead materials management projects to support new product launches and continuous improvement initiatives across functions.

• Continuously evaluate and optimize materials planning processes and systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and reliability.

• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows, automate tasks, and leverage technology solutions to optimize operations.

• Drive improvements in inventory management and supply chain performance through the implementation of best practices and technology advancements.

• Develop, maintain, and enhance metrics and KPIs for materials management, utilizing BI tools to create reports and dashboards.

• Generate regular reports and present findings to senior management, highlighting trends, areas for improvement, and customer service performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, logistics, business, or a related field.

• Proven experience in supply chain management and MRP processes, preferably in the food co-packaging industry.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.

• 5 years of experience in materials management.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Exceptional problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

• Proficiency in ERP software, preferably Microsoft AX.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and generate meaningful insights.

• Knowledge of food manufacturing processes, industry regulations, and quality standards (preferred).