Materials Controller – Supply Chain (Sunderland)

About the role

Jackson Hogg is supporting a well‑established manufacturing business in Sunderland to recruit a Materials Controller. Reporting to the Plant Manager, you will ensure that material supply aligns with production needs, maintaining optimal stock levels while focusing on cost, quality and supplier performance.

Key responsibilities

• Manage procurement, material planning and stock levels for raw materials and consumables.
• Utilise MRP/ERP systems to keep accurate inventory records.
• Minimise excess and obsolete stock while guaranteeing continuity of supply.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, negotiate pricing and contracts.
• Monitor supplier performance on quality, delivery and cost.
• Conduct regular stocktakes and ensure system accuracy.
• Handle material quality issues, delivery delays and goods‑in queries.
• Coordinate logistics activities, including imports, exports and customs clearance.
• Liaise with internal teams and external warehouses to support production demand.
• Support continuous improvement and supply‑chain optimisation initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Materials Controller or in a similar supply‑chain role.
• Background in manufacturing, preferably FMCG or packaging.
• Strong understanding of inventory control and supply‑chain processes.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP desirable).
• Skilled in supplier management and commercial negotiation.
• Experience managing import/export processes and logistics coordination.
• Strong organisational and communication abilities.
• Desirable: CIPS qualification or working towards it; exposure to plastics or extrusion processes.

Required skills

• SAP
• ERP systems
• MRP
• Inventory control
• Import/export processes
• Logistics coordination