Planning and Procurement Manager - StraussGroup - Executive Search Consultants : Job Details

THE POSITION

The Planning & Procurement Manager plays a pivotal role in optimizing organizational efficiency by overseeing raw material and production planning processes. This position ensures seamless alignment between demand forecasts, production schedules, and resource allocation, while actively managing inventory demands. Additionally, the Planning & Procurement Manager coordinates with the design engineering team during product development activities and provides guidance on supplier selection and risk assessment.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Utilize demand forecasts and strategic plans to synchronize capacity requirements with production schedules, resource levels, and inventory demands.
• Ensure availability of raw materials to meet designated production schedules.
• Utilize MRP system to oversee material planning across purchasing, processing, warehousing, and production.
• Develop forecasts for raw material needs based on purchases, production rates, and maintenance schedules.
• Utilize production metrics and manufacturing research to identify process improvements and optimize production schedules.
• Collaborate with production management to troubleshoot complex production issues and alleviate bottlenecks impacting plant capacity.
• Coordinate with stakeholders in purchasing and inventory control to address adjustments and resolve complex issues.
• Maintain supplier relationships and negotiate lead times as necessary.
• Provide input to strategic decisions affecting the functional area of responsibility, including budget development.
• Resolve escalated operational issues requiring coordination with other departments.
• Coordinate with the design engineering team during product development to ensure sourcing feasibility from the existing supply base.
• Provide assessment and guidance on supplier selection aligned with core competencies.
• Support ongoing supplier risk assessment using various research methods and internal tools, communicating findings across the organization.
• Manage key supplier performance through supplier performance management tools, ensuring KPI goals are met and deviations are addressed with clear action plans.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong understanding of production planning processes and supply chain management.
• Proficiency in MRP systems and related software.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and ability to drive results in a dynamic environment.
• Experience with Microsoft Office.
• Experience with Intuitive/ERP software required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3+ years of managerial experience in planning and procurement.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Manages employees in the assigned planning and materials departments. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit, in conjunction with the Director of Operations. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding, and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving programs.