Materials Manager

Company Description

We are BEKUM America Corporation, the world’s leading designer and builder of extrusion blow molding machines. We are proud of our legacy, our accomplishments and our worldwide reputation for excellence and innovation. We recognize that our employees are key to our success and we believe in mentoring, tutoring and further developing our employees. We know PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

Job Description

The Materials Manager is responsible for directing and coordinating all materials and logistics activities to ensure efficient flow of materials throughout the organization. This role oversees purchasing, production control, warehousing, shipping and receiving, and inventory control, while leading and developing the Materials team to meet operational, quality, and business objectives.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

Materials Management (Overall)

• Direct all aspects of materials flow including procurement, production planning, receiving, warehousing, inventory control, and shipping
• Partner cross-functionally with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, After Sales, and Finance to support operational and customer requirements
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure proper material tracking throughout the organization
• Lead and develop Materials department employees, including hiring, training, performance management, and discipline as needed
• Support and maintain ISO 9001:2015 compliant materials processes and documentation
• Work with Finance and Business Systems to maintain and improve MRP functionality

Purchasing

• Establish and enforce purchasing policies, procedures, and controls
• Approve purchase requisitions and purchase orders
• Develop sourcing strategies and maintain strong vendor relationships
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules
• Evaluate supplier performance using scorecards and corrective actions
• Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing to ensure proper specifications and quality

Production Control

• Lead materials planning, forecasting, and scheduling activities
• Translate forecasts and customer orders into material and production plans
• Release material requirements to Purchasing and schedules to Manufacturing
• Participate in production, planning, and product meetings
• Balance material availability between Manufacturing and After Sales needs
• Prepare inventory, labor, and cost data as requested

Warehousing, Shipping & Receiving

• Oversee warehouse and crib layout, organization, and security
• Ensure accurate receipt, storage, and issuance of all materials
• Maintain clean, orderly, and safe warehouse operations
• Ensure timely and accurate shipment of parts, components, and machines
• Coordinate packaging, crating, and transportation activities
• Train staff on material handling equipment and procedures

Inventory Control

• Maintain accurate inventory of raw materials and finished components
• Establish and monitor inventory controls, cycle counts, and physical inventories
• Partner with Finance on inventory valuation and variance resolution
• Review and approve obsolete or damaged material for scrap

Manufacturing Engineering

• Lead and direct the activities of the Manufacturing Engineer to ensure alignment with operational goals and production requirements.
• Establish clear goals, objectives, and performance expectations for the Manufacturing Engineering function.
• Partner with Manufacturing, Engineering, and other cross-functional teams to support process improvements, equipment optimization, and production efficiency initiatives.
• Ensure manufacturing engineering activities support material flow, cost control, quality standards, and overall operational performance.
• Provide guidance and accountability to ensure projects are completed on time and in alignment with company priorities.

Leadership & Management Responsibilities

• Develop and implement materials-related policies and procedures
• Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate Materials department staff
• Address employee performance and behavioral issues in a timely manner
• Provide consistent leadership aligned with company values and expectations

Qualifications

Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements outlined below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Management, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in materials management within a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of 5 years of supervisory or management experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience demonstrating strong managerial and technical capabilities will also be considered.

Skills and Qualifications

• Proven leadership and people management skills, with experience coaching, motivating, and developing high-performing teams.
• Advanced knowledge of MRP systems and materials planning processes.
• Experience in contract negotiation, vendor management, and sourcing strategies.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 standards and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of domestic and international logistics, including INCOTERMS.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• APICS certification (CPIM or CSCP) is a plus.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

• Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) preferred.

Additional Information

Bekum America Corporation offers a total compensation package that emphasizes the health and wellbeing of our diverse workforce, and encourages work-life balance. Our comprehensive benefits suite aligns with our belief that people are at the center of our success and should be valued as such.

Bekum America offers full medical, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability, tuition assistance, paid holidays, competitive vacation package, 401 (K) with company match and profit sharing, increases tied to performance, and a path for continued training and development.

Bekum America Corporation reserves the right to change, amend, add, delete, and otherwise assign any and all duties, responsibilities, and position titles as it deems necessary to meet the needs of its business.

Your contact person for this position:

Amber Stein, HR Manager, (517) 655-7126, hr.bac@bekum.com>

Videos To Watch