Materials & Logistics Manager

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Materials & Logistics Manager to join a world‑leader in automotive component manufacturing. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will lead a team in a fast‑paced, JIT environment, ensuring material availability and seamless warehouse operations.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain continuous material flow to support JIT production with zero line stoppages.
• Manage supplier call‑offs, sequenced releases and short‑lead‑time adjustments.
• Lead expediting activities and develop contingency plans for supply risks.
• Oversee inbound, internal and line‑side logistics, ensuring accurate receipt, storage, picking, kitting and line feeding.
• Drive lean logistics initiatives such as kanban systems and line‑side optimisation.
• Control MP&L budgets, inventory investment and freight spend while identifying cost‑reduction opportunities.
• Act as primary escalation point for suppliers and collaborate with production, quality, finance and customer teams.

Required profile

• Senior‑level experience in materials management within a JIT or automotive environment.
• Proven leadership of multi‑shift teams (5 direct reports).
• Strong analytical ability to work with large data sets (e.g., 1,500 part numbers).
• Excellent problem‑solving skills to anticipate disruptions and implement recovery plans.

Required skills

• MRP systems and BOM management
• SCM tools for forecasting and KPI reporting
• Kanban and other lean logistics techniques
• Inventory management with FIFO, traceability and space optimisation