Material Planning Manager

About the role

Slate is seeking a Material Planning Manager to oversee a team of Material / Inventory Analysts. This role involves managing inventory of service parts and accessories, collaborating with SI&OP team, and working with suppliers to optimize inventory levels.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of Material / Inventory Analysts responsible for maintaining inventory of Service Parts and Accessories required for our customers.
• Develop and drive continuous improvement in Material Planning and Inventory Management processes to reduce inventory while maintaining high fulfillment rates.
• Collaborate with the Sales Inventory and Operations Planning (SI&OP) team to understand the requirements of your portfolio of parts.
• Place and track purchase orders (through our ERP System) to the suppliers of the Service Parts and Accessories in your portfolio of parts.
• Work collaboratively with suppliers on reviewing and improving lead times, minimum order quantities, rounding values, and other related purchase data to optimize inventory stored at Slate’s warehouse / 3PL.
• Monitor parts inventory levels and work collaboratively with suppliers on expediting and de-expediting orders based on actual orders received.
• Devise and implement parts level strategies and procedures to drive efficient inventory control, leading to optimized inventory levels.
• Own the tactical (day-to-day) supplier relationships while fostering long-term partnerships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Material Management, Material Analytics, Operations, or equivalent, preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business Management, preferably working in Material Management.
• 2 + years of previous manager experience in a Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business Management role is required.
• Strong analytical skills, with sufficient understanding of basic and advanced material management processes and practices.
• Proficiency in ERP Systems and Project Management tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or other data analysis tools, such as SmartSheets, Tableau, Alteryx, or other scripting tools.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an understanding of how to present complex data in easily understood ways to multiple levels with the business.
• Strong problem solving capabilities, with attention to detail.
• Comfortable in start-up environments. You can roll up your sleeves to do the work and build, or recommend the tools needed to be successful as the company grows.
• A proactive, “one company” teammate with a continuous improvement approach, equally comfortable with warehousing practices, material management, business planning, and financial implications.
• Capable of working cross-functionally with external partners and internal teams, building strong relationships that produce positive results.

Physical Requirements

• Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).
• Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds.
• Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

What You Bring To The Team

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Material Management, Material Analytics, Operations, or equivalent, preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business Management, preferably working in Material Management.
• 2 + years of previous manager experience in a Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business Management role is required.
• Strong analytical skills, with sufficient understanding of basic and advanced material management processes and practices.
• Proficiency in ERP Systems and Project Management tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or other data analysis tools, such as SmartSheets, Tableau, Alteryx, or other scripting tools.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an understanding of how to present complex data in easily understood ways to multiple levels with the business.
• Strong problem solving capabilities, with attention to detail.
• Comfortable in start-up environments. You can roll up your sleeves to do the work and build, or recommend the tools needed to be successful as the company grows.
• A proactive, “one company” teammate with a continuous improvement approach, equally comfortable with warehousing practices, material management, business planning, and financial implications.
• Capable of working cross-functionally with external partners and internal teams, building strong relationships that produce positive results.