A global manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Materials Manager to lead materials operations across two growing West Michigan facilities.

This is a highly visible leadership role supporting a rapidly expanding automotive business with multiple new programs launching over the next several years. The Materials Manager will lead purchasing, planning, scheduling, inventory control, and supplier-management activities while helping the organization scale its systems, processes, and team.

The ideal candidate is a proactive, hands-on materials leader who understands automotive manufacturing, anticipates supply-chain risks, and can confidently engage suppliers, customers, corporate partners, and plant leadership.

What You’ll Do

Lead materials activities across two manufacturing facilities, including purchasing, materials planning, master scheduling, inventory control, and production support.

Coach, develop, and provide day-to-day leadership to buyers, planners, and scheduling professionals.

Support the launch of multiple new automotive programs and ensure material readiness throughout pre-launch, launch, and ongoing production.

Partner with global and local program teams to review bills of material, sourcing decisions, supplier capacity, lead times, and potential supply risks.

Lead the onboarding and operational integration of new suppliers, particularly within the automotive electronics supply chain.

Monitor material availability and identify potential disruptions before they affect production or customer delivery.

Escalate supplier performance issues and drive timely corrective actions when commitments are at risk.

Build effective relationships with automotive customers, suppliers, operations leaders, program managers, warehouse teams, and corporate stakeholders.

Ensure accurate ERP/MRP parameters, planning data, inventory records,



and cycle-count controls.

Drive inventory performance, including improved accuracy, appropriate stocking levels, and the reduction of excess and obsolete materials.

Oversee the timely and cost-effective flow of materials to production while maintaining quality and handling standards.

Develop and maintain materials policies, procedures, controls, and corporate reporting.

Review purchase orders, change notices, contracts, and purchasing claims for accuracy and policy compliance.

Maintain a visible presence on the manufacturing floor and develop a practical understanding of production processes and material flow.

Support occasional evening or weekend needs based on production requirements.

What You Bring

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, operations, engineering, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.

At least eight years of progressive materials, supply-chain, purchasing, planning, or manufacturing experience.

Materials leadership experience within the automotive industry.

Experience supporting major automotive OEM customers; Ford and/or General Motors experience is strongly preferred.

Experience with automotive program launches, supplier onboarding, and production ramp-up.

Working knowledge of electronics manufacturing, PCBA, SMT, or a related technical supply chain.

Demonstrated experience leading buyers, planners, schedulers, or other materials professionals.





Strong understanding of ERP/MRP systems, planning logic, inventory controls, and material requirements.

Experience with BAAN is helpful but not required; experience with SAP, Oracle, or another manufacturing ERP system is welcome.

Ability to analyze supply risks, establish priorities, and act before issues disrupt production.

Confidence holding suppliers accountable and navigating difficult conversations professionally.

Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to balance hands-on operational involvement with leadership meetings and corporate reporting.

Willingness to work on-site and support both Walker and Coopersville operations.

What Will Make You Successful
You will thrive in this role if you:

Lead with urgency without creating unnecessary fire drills.

Recognize supply-chain risks early and develop practical mitigation plans.

Know when to elevate an issue and when to let the team execute.

Build trust with an established team while introducing greater accountability and structure.

Are comfortable working in a lean, fast-moving manufacturing environment.

Can collaborate across local operations and a large global organization.

Enjoy developing people and building scalable materials processes.

Want the opportunity to grow into broader materials or supply-chain leadership.

The comprehensive perks package includes:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

Short- and long-term disability coverage

401(k) with employer matching

Paid vacation and sick time

Annual performance-bonus opportunity

Local candidates are preferred; however, exceptional candidates outside West Michigan are encouraged to apply. Employment sponsorship is not available for this position.

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📌 Materials Manager (Manitoba)
🏢 Nmble Hiring Solutions
📍 Manitoba