Logistics Manager

About the Role

Lead and direct the materials function in a high-volume, team-oriented automotive environment, providing long-term planning to support plant objectives for on-time delivery, inventory dollars, days on hand (DOH), supplier delivery, equipment utilization, and the use of lean principles and tools. Serve as the interface with customer and corporate material functions, ensuring customer demands are met through effective material requirements communication to Manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Direct the activities of shipping, receiving, warehousing, and value stream material analysts to ensure appropriate training and development of personnel to meet operational needs.
• Develop and implement robust systems for plant inventory levels (raw, WIP, and finished goods) to meet inventory goals and support demand requirements.
• Oversee purchasing, production scheduling, logistics, and inventory control processes to ensure uninterrupted production flow while maintaining minimum inventory.
• Align production and scheduling practices with plant and corporate goals.
• Support lean manufacturing principles, processes, and new product introductions.
• Participate in interplant activities and act as a liaison with corporate materials to contribute to overall corporate and plant strategies.
• Train and develop the organization in lean and materials management concepts and principles.
• Participate in daily strategic meetings to capture and address improvement opportunities systematically.
• Employ effective problem-solving and continuous improvement techniques.
• Monitor and ensure departmental personnel conform to company policies, procedures, and safety standards while maintaining a cost-efficient environment.
• Assist Plant Engineering and Plant Quality in resolving substandard or rejected materials.
• Establish and manage a department budget that aligns with organizational goals.
• Operate ethically in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and procedures related to purchasing and financial reporting.
• Assist in developing inventory and freight budgets to establish acceptable levels and controls, optimizing transportation routes and cost-saving opportunities.
• Coordinate engineering changes, product balance-outs, and new product launches with suppliers and customers to ensure timely transitions with minimal obsolescence.
• Utilize the Supplier Standards Manual and Statement of Work to improve supplier capability while maintaining raw material flow.
• Oversee warehouse and material replenishment to production, establishing optimal stores locations, handling methods, and visual management.
• Determine and maintain appropriate material handling equipment and staffing levels for loading, unloading, moving, and storing materials.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with ERP technology (e.g., SAP) and quality management systems (e.g., QOS, QS9000, KAIZEN).
• Background in customer relations is favored.
• Knowledge of cost-saving techniques and change management processes.
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and computer skills.
• ASCM or APICS certification.
• Experience with applied lean manufacturing techniques and Six Sigma (preferred).
• Previous experience in automotive manufacturing is a plus.
• Experience with sales, inventory, operational planning, and supply chain practices.
• Familiarity with value stream mapping, demand leveling, Kanban calculations, and techniques.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit frequently for extended periods.
• Ability to move about the plant in both office and manufacturing areas.
• Occasional travel required.
• Manual dexterity for computer work.
• Effective communication abilities.

Work Environment

Office environment with artificial lighting, computers, telephones, desks, and temperature control. Some exposure to manufacturing areas may be required.