The RoleWe are seeking a strategic and dynamic
Senior Materials Manager to lead and optimize all facets of materials management, including demand planning, procurement, inventory control, logistics, warehousing, and supplier performance. This leadership role is responsible for developing and executing materials strategies that support operational excellence, customer satisfaction, cost optimization, and sustainable business growth.
The Senior Materials Manager will provide leadership to a cross-functional materials organization, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and serve as a key business partner to Operations, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering, and Customer teams. The ideal candidate is a results-oriented supply chain leader with deep automotive manufacturing experience, exceptional analytical capabilities, and a proven track record of building high-performing teams.
This position is based on-site at our Louisville, KY facility and reports directly to the VP of Operations, MSS.
What You'll Do- Strategic Leadership & Team Development:
- Provide leadership, direction, and mentorship to the materials organization, including planning, procurement, inventory control, shipping, receiving, and logistics functions.
- Develop succession plans and build organizational capability through coaching, training, and performance management.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
- Supply Chain Strategy & Materials Planning:
- Develop and execute materials strategies that align with production requirements, customer demand, and business objectives.
- Lead Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning activities to ensure material availability while optimizing inventory investment.
- Collaborate closely with manufacturing, program management, and customer teams to support production schedules and delivery commitments.
- Procurement & Supplier Management:
- Oversee procurement activities to ensure uninterrupted supply of production materials and indirect goods.
- Lead supplier performance management initiatives, driving improvements in quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost.
- Partner with suppliers to mitigate supply chain risks and support business continuity strategies.
- Inventory Management & PFEP Ownership:
- Maintain ownership of inventory strategy, accuracy, and control processes across all locations.
- Oversee cycle count programs, physical inventories, and corrective action activities to achieve inventory accuracy targets.
- Lead the development and ongoing maintenance of the Plan for Every Part (PFEP), establishing optimal Min/Max levels and replenishment parameters.
- Logistics & Transportation Management:
- Direct inbound and outbound logistics operations, including transportation strategy, carrier management, premium freight reduction, and customer delivery performance.
- Ensure compliance with customer-specific packaging, routing, and logistics requirements, including CLIPS and other customer systems.
- Drive logistics efficiency initiatives to improve service levels while reducing overall transportation costs.
- Systems, Analytics & Reporting:
- Lead the development and implementation of materials management processes, procedures, and reporting systems.
- Utilize ERP/MRP systems and data analytics to drive decision-making and improve operational performance.
- Establish, monitor, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory, supplier performance, logistics, and customer delivery metrics.
- Continuous Improvement & Cost Management:
- Identify and implement initiatives that improve material flow, reduce waste, optimize working capital, and enhance overall supply chain performance.
- Lead cross-functional continuous improvement projects utilizing Lean Manufacturing and problem-solving methodologies.
- Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and cost reduction initiatives for the materials function.
- Compliance & Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with company policies, customer requirements, and industry standards across all materials operations.
- Develop and maintain documentation, work instructions, and contingency plans to support operational continuity.
- Champion workplace safety initiatives and ensure adherence to all environmental, health, and safety requirements.
- Additional Responsibilities:
- Support plant and corporate strategic initiatives as required.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by executive leadership.
Who You Are- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Logistics, or a related field required; MBA preferred.
- 7+ years of progressive materials management, supply chain, procurement, and logistics leadership experience, preferably within the automotive manufacturing industry.
- 5+ years of leadership experience managing materials, supply chain, or logistics teams in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Extensive experience supporting both Bailed Material and Owned Material Operations.
- Strong knowledge of MRP/ERP systems, inventory management principles, production planning, procurement, warehousing, and transportation management.
- Experience with automotive customer requirements, including JIT/JIS delivery systems, packaging standards, and supplier performance management.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, and materials management systems such as Trans4M or similar ERP platforms.
- Demonstrated success in leading continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including executive leadership and external customers.
Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements- Ability to work effectively in both office and manufacturing environments, including standing, walking, and navigating plant facilities as needed.
- Ability to occasionally lift and move materials or equipment as required.
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 30%, as business needs require.
- Valid driver's license required.
Life at Emotiv Mobility We believe great work happens when people feel valued, supported, and connected. At Emotiv Mobility, you will find a culture built on collaboration, learning, and celebrating wins of all sizes. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to grow your career alongside industry leaders who are shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.
Explore everything we have to offer at Emotiv Mobility Careers!