Position Summary: Sf Recruitment are working with a leading supplier to automotive industry based in southwest Birmingham to recruit a Materials manager. This role would suit Supply Chain professionals from an automotive/manufacturing setting with team management experience. The Materials Manager will be responsible for ensuring optimal inventory levels are always maintained to support Operations. Leading a team of buyer/planners, analysing demand across a diverse range of customers, safeguarding a smooth and efficient supply chain. This is a key leadership role and will require strong analytical, strategic and communication skills. Responsibilities: • Manage the Materials Planning team to ensure the appropriate resource and experience is dedicated to each customer account. • Maintain a cost base in line with Operational margin objectives. • Ensure DRP forecasts and/or customer schedules are analysed and actioned in a timely manner. • Ensure planning team continue to maintain data integrity within the ERP system. • Maintaining inventory levels in line with annual plan/monthly forecasts and highlighting variances as appropriate. • Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers. • Participate in contract and cost negotiations as required. • Analyse monthly inventory reports and work with sales dept to identify excess and End of Life product. • Monitor and analyse supply chain performance metrics to identify areas of improvements. • Implement and drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise supply chain efficiency and reduce costs. Education, Experience & Qualifications: • 5+ years’ experience in senior/lead materials planning, procurement, or demand planning role. • Creative and Strategic thinker. • Data orientated with critical math and reasoning skills. • Strong presentation skills • Adaptable and able to work with small teams as well as within a larger multinational corporate environment. • Advanced Excel skills