Materials Planning Manager

About the role

Manages materials planning activities including demand planning, inventory strategies, production requirements, and material availability, while managing day-to-day operations, developing team performance, and supporting departmental goals.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily materials planning operations using ERP systems to ensure accurate demand forecasting and optimal inventory levels aligned with aerospace production schedules.
• Drive production schedule to achieve daily/weekly/monthly targets while optimizing inventory levels.
• Coordinate new product introduction stage gates to ensure on time customer delivery.
• Develop and implement inventory control strategies leveraging MRP tools to minimize stockouts and excess inventory, supporting AS9100 compliance.
• Oversee accuracy of system planning parameters.
• Coordinate with production and procurement teams to align material availability with flight hardware manufacturing timelines, ensuring uninterrupted assembly flow.
• Analyze historical demand data and production forecasts using advanced Excel modeling to improve material requirement accuracy and reduce lead times.
• Lead root cause investigations of material shortages or excesses using supply chain analytics to drive continuous improvement in planning processes.
• Manage team performance through regular coaching and development sessions focused on aerospace materials management best practices and ITAR compliance.
• Collaborate with quality and logistics departments to ensure materials meet aerospace standards and are handled by EHS and FOD prevention protocols.
• Prepare and present materials planning reports and KPIs to senior management, highlighting inventory turnover, forecast accuracy, and cost-saving initiatives.

Qualifications

• Proven knowledge of aerospace materials planning principles, including demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and production scheduling.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems commonly used in aerospace manufacturing environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and generate actionable insights.
• Experience managing teams within a high-security, ITAR-regulated aerospace or defense facility.
• Understanding of AS9100 quality standards and their impact on materials management processes.

Education

• Minimum: High School Diploma or Associate's Degree
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Experience

• 5–8 years of experience in Materials Planning or related supply chain function within aerospace or defense

Preferred Qualifications

• Team Collaboration and Communication Skills