Factory Supply Chain Manager

Location: Elgin

Job Summary

The Demand & Supply Chain Manager is responsible for leading demand planning, inventory management, production planning, and supply chain optimization activities to ensure customer requirements are met while maintaining optimal inventory levels and operational efficiency. This role manages a team of 7 with 3 planner/buyers, 1 shipping supervisor, and 3 shipping & receiving/material handlers. The role collaborates closely with Sales, Manufacturing, Suppliers, and Customer Service teams to develop accurate forecasts, balance supply and demand, and drive continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

Demand Planning & Forecasting

• Lead the monthly demand planning process and develop accurate sales and production forecasts.
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends, customer demand patterns, and business intelligence to improve forecast accuracy.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service to align demand forecasts with customer requirements.
• Monitor forecast performance and implement corrective actions to address variances.

Supply Planning & Inventory Management

• Manage a team of 3 planner/buyers across 2 product lines
• Develop and maintain supply plans to meet customer demand while optimizing inventory levels.
• Balance inventory investments with service level objectives and working capital targets.
• Manage the a shipping, receiving, and material handling team of 4 members.
• Identify inventory risks, excess inventory, and potential shortages, implementing mitigation plans as needed.
• Establish and monitor inventory policies, safety stock levels, and replenishment strategies.
• Production & Capacity Planning
• Partner with manufacturing and operations teams to create production schedules aligned with customer demand.
• Evaluate production capacity and identify constraints that may impact service levels.
• Coordinate with procurement and suppliers to ensure material availability.
• Manage supply disruptions and develop contingency plans to maintain business continuity.

Sales, Inventory & Operations Planning (S&OP)

• Lead or support the S&OP process, ensuring alignment between demand forecasts, production capabilities, and business objectives.
• Facilitate cross-functional meetings and provide data-driven recommendations.
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership regarding demand, supply, inventory, and operational performance.

Supply Chain Optimization

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction across the supply chain.
• Utilize data analytics and KPIs to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Implement best practices in forecasting, planning, inventory management, and supplier collaboration.
• Support digital transformation and system improvement projects related to ERP, MRP, and planning tools.
• Identify new suppliers as needed to ensure risk mitigation, cost effectiveness, and supply continuity.
• Ensure compliance with AS9100 requirements and customer flowdowns.
• Complete small business reporting requirements.

Performance Management

Monitor and report key performance indicators, including:

• Forecast Accuracy
• Inventory Turns/Days Inventory of Deliveries
• On-Time Delivery/Broken Promises
• Inventory Carrying Costs
• Production Schedule Adherence
• Backorder Performance/Arrears

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• APICS/ASCM certifications (CPIM, CSCP) preferred.

Experience

• 8+ years of experience in demand planning, supply chain management, production planning, or related roles.
• Previous experience managing people preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing environments preferred.
• Proven success leading S&OP processes and cross-functional teams.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (XA/Mapics preferred).
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
• Excellent communication skills both verbally and written.

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