Inventory Manager

This is an onsite position based in Hanover Park, IL. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

About the Role

The Inventory Manager oversees all inventory control processes within the plant to ensure accurate, timely, and efficient material flow. This role supports production continuity, minimizes inventory discrepancies, and drives operational excellence across all shifts. The Inventory Manager leads inventory teams, partners cross-functionally with production, shipping, and purchasing, and ensures alignment with MANN+HUMMEL standards and KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate inventory levels across raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
• Drive cycle count programs and ensure compliance with audit requirements.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies, root cause issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Monitor inventory transactions within ERP systems (e.g., SAP / SuccessFactors integration where applicable).
• Lead and develop Inventory Supervisors and team members across all shifts.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and performance standards.
• Support staffing, training, and development of inventory personnel.
• Partner with supervisors to ensure consistency in processes and execution.
• Work closely with Production, Shipping, Receiving, and Purchasing teams to ensure material availability aligns with production schedules.
• Support plant initiatives such as continuous improvement and cost reduction.
• Communicate effectively with leadership on inventory performance and risks.
• Identify opportunities to improve inventory accuracy, material flow, and warehouse organization.
• Implement lean principles and best practices within inventory operations.
• Support system and process enhancements in coordination with corporate teams.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, safety standards, and audit requirements.
• Prepare and present inventory KPIs (accuracy, variance, cycle counts, etc.).
• Maintain documentation and reporting for internal and external audits.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in inventory control within a manufacturing environment.
• 2+ years of leadership experience within a manufacturing/warehousing environment.
• Strong knowledge of ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within the automotive, aerospace, and/or filtration manufacturing industries.
• Lean / Six Sigma knowledge (Yellow Belt minimum preferred).
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
• KANBAN and PFEP experience.