Position title: materials planner
reports to: materials manager
as a *materials planner*, you will be responsible for managing materials and inventory levels to support production requirements and ensure on-time delivery of components. You will work closely with suppliers, production teams, and other stakeholders to optimize inventory levels, minimize costs, and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
*responsibilities*:
*materials planning and scheduling*:
- develop and maintain materials plans based on production schedules, sales forecasts, and inventory targets.
- coordinate with production planners to ensure timely availability of materials and components to support production requirements.
- monitor inventory levels and replenish materials as needed to prevent stockouts and minimize excess inventory.
*supplier management*:
- communicate production requirements and delivery schedules to suppliers.
- monitor supplier performance and address any issues related to quality, delivery, or pricing.
- negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers to optimize costs and ensure continuity of supply.
*inventory control*:
- implement inventory control measures to optimize inventory levels and minimize carrying costs.
- conduct regular inventory audits and cycle counts to ensure accuracy and integrity of inventory data.
- analyze inventory trends and variances to identify opportunities for improvement.
*production coordination*:
- collaborate with production teams to prioritize materials and components based on production schedules and demand forecasts.
- coordinate material deliveries and shipments to ensure alignment with production requirements.
- resolve any material-related issues that may impact production schedules or quality.
*continuous improvement*:
- identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings in materials planning and inventory management.
- implement best practices and standardize processes to streamline materials planning activities.
- participate in cross-functional teams and projects to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
*reporting and analysis*:
- prepare and analyze reports on materials usage, inventory levels, and supplier performance.
- provide insights and recommendations to management based on data analysis.
- develop and maintain key performance indicators (kpis) to track materials planning performance.
*requirements*:
- bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field.
- minimum of 3 years of experience in materials planning, inventory management, or supply chain coordination, preferably in the automotive industry.
- proven experience in materials planning or a related field. (headliners and overhead systems, door and console armrests, instrument panel trim components, and fiber solutions)
- knowledge of the automotive interior products industry.
- strong knowledge of materials planning principles, inventory control methods, and supply chain processes.
- proficiency in materials planning software and erp systems (e.g., sap, oracle).
- excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
- detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality.