Sr. Raw Material Planner
Job Summary
The Sr. Raw Material Planner serves as a strategic business partner responsible for ensuring optimal material supply while driving financial performance through data-driven analysis and cost optimization. This role combines advanced supply chain planning with comprehensive financial analysis to support uninterrupted production, maximize profitability, and deliver best-in-class customer service. The position requires an analytical professional who can translate complex data into actionable financial insights and strategic recommendations.
Key Responsibilities
Supply Chain Planning & Optimization: Develop and execute both short-term and long-term material plans that align supply and demand while optimizing working capital and inventory investment
Establish and maintain optimal inventory levels that balance service levels, carrying costs, and obsolescence risk
Proactively identify and resolve material shortages while minimizing expediting costs and production interruptions
Collaborate with local material coordinators and site supply chain managers to ensure seamless daily operations
Financial Analysis & Decision Support
Conduct comprehensive cost analysis including total cost of ownership, landed costs, and supplier price benchmarking
Develop and maintain financial models for forecasting material costs, inventory valuation, and budget variance analysis
Perform detailed ROI analysis and financial justification for material sourcing decisions, supplier changes, and inventory optimization initiatives
Analyze lead time trends and their financial impact on inventory carrying costs, stockout risks, and customer service levels
Create detailed cost comparison reports for alternative materials, suppliers, and sourcing strategies
Monitor and report on key financial metrics including inventory turns, days of supply, and material cost variance
Strategic Planning & Forecasting
Lead statistical analysis of demand patterns, seasonal trends, and market fluctuations to improve forecast accuracy
Conduct sensitivity analysis and scenario planning for material cost impacts on product profitability
Support annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes with detailed material cost projections
Stakeholder Management & Process Improvement
Facilitate cross-functional collaboration meetings with stakeholders and vendors to review forecasts, purchase orders, and cost optimization opportunities
Present financial analysis and recommendations to leadership team for material-related capital investments and strategic decisions
Design and implement analytical tools and dashboards to enhance planning efficiency and financial visibility
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing material costs, improving forecast accuracy, and optimizing inventory levels
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Business Administration, or related analytical field
4-6 years of experience in supply chain planning, financial analysis, or operations management
Demonstrated experience in cost analysis, financial modeling, and budget management
Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel including financial modeling, pivot tables, and statistical analysis
Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and advanced planning systems (APO/MRP)
Strong knowledge of financial principles including cost accounting, inventory valuation, and working capital management
Proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical software (SQL, Power BI, or similar preferred)
Understanding of procurement processes, supplier management, and contract negotiations
Core Competencies: Exceptional analytical and quantitative skills with ability to derive insights from complex datasets
Strong financial acumen with experience in cost-benefit analysis and ROI calculations
Excellent business communication skills with ability to present financial analysis to diverse audiences
Proven ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities
Strategic thinking capability with focus on continuous improvement and cost optimization
Detail-oriented approach with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Preferred Qualifications
Training & Certifications: APICS Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) certification
APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or similar supply chain certification
Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent process improvement certification
Advanced Excel or data analysis certification
What We Offer
Join IFF, a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, where innovation meets purpose and financial excellence drives sustainable growth.
We offer a collaborative environment that values diversity, inclusion, and professional development.
This role provides the opportunity to make a significant impact on both operational efficiency and financial performance while working with cutting-edge analytical tools and technologies.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including competitive compensation, performance-based incentives, comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and extensive professional development opportunities.
You'll have access to advanced training programs, cross-functional project opportunities, and clear pathways for career advancement within our global organization.
About IFF
We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.
To learn more about our commitment to workplace diversity and inclusion, visit: IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion.