Production Control & Supply Chain Manager

DescriptionPosition Summary

The Supply Chain Manager is responsible for overseeing end-to-end supply chain operations for a manufacturing company, including procurement, production planning, inventory management, logistics, and supplier relationships. This role ensures timely delivery of materials and finished goods, optimized inventory levels, and alignment with customer-specific requirements and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Supply Chain Planning & Execution

• Develop and execute supply chain strategies aligned with business goals and customer demands.
• Manage demand planning, production scheduling, and materials requirements planning (MRP) for custom builds.
• Coordinate closely with engineering, sales, and production teams to support customized product orders and changing specifications.

Procurement & Supplier Management

• Source and manage suppliers for raw materials and specialty components.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery terms to ensure cost efficiency and supply continuity.
• Evaluate supplier performance (quality, cost, delivery) and implement improvements where needed.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and certifications.

Inventory & Materials Management

• Optimize inventory levels for raw materials, WIP, and finished goods while minimizing excess and obsolete stock.
• Implement inventory control systems and cycle counting processes.
• Monitor material usage and manage shortages or disruptions proactively.

Logistics & Distribution

• Oversee inbound and outbound logistics, including freight, warehousing, and shipping.
• Ensure timely delivery of finished goods to customers, including custom and expedited orders.
• Manage relationships with freight carriers and logistics providers.

Process Improvement & Cost Optimization

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and lower costs.
• Leverage ERP/MRP systems for data accuracy and process automation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.).

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with production teams to align capacity planning and resolve bottlenecks.
• Work with sales/customer service to support accurate order fulfillment and lead-time commitments.
• Support engineering with new product introductions (NPI) and sourcing strategies for custom designs.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and environmental standards.
• Develop contingency plans for supply chain disruptions (e.g., material shortages, supplier issues).
• Maintain documentation and traceability for materials used in manufacturing.

QualificationsQualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business, Engineering, or related field.

Experience

• 7+ years of supply chain, procurement, or operations experience in manufacturing.
• Experience in custom manufacturing components preferred.
• Strong knowledge of MRP/ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier management abilities.
• Ability to manage complex, customized orders and dynamic production schedules.
• Proficiency in inventory management techniques and demand forecasting.
• Effective leadership and team management skills.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-time delivery rate
• Inventory turns and accuracy
• Supplier performance (OTIF, quality)
• Lead time reduction
• Cost savings and procurement efficiency
• Production schedule adherence

Work Environment

• Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and warehouse settings.
• May require occasional travel to supplier sites or customer locations.

Preferred Certifications (Optional)

APICS CPIM or CSCP

Lean Six Sigma certification