Materials Manager | Charlotte, MI

Salary Range: $84,000 - $124,000 depending on experience

Are you a forward-thinking professional with a passion for inventory optimization and ensuring material availability? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in Charlotte seeking skilled Materials Managers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Charlotte seeking Materials Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the procurement, storage, and distribution of raw materials and finished goods.
• Develop and implement inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and reliable delivery.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and quality teams to ensure material availability and suitability.
• Implement and maintain robust material tracking systems to ensure accuracy and traceability.
• Lead and mentor a team of materials planners, buyers, and warehouse personnel.
• Monitor market trends and supplier performance to mitigate supply chain risks.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in materials management or a similar role within a manufacturing environment
• Proven track record of implementing and optimizing inventory management systems (e.g., MRP, ERP)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and their impact on materials planning
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team of materials professionals
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in using ERP systems for materials planning and inventory management.
• Certifications such as CPIM or CSCP from APICS.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate with suppliers and manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Familiarity with import/export regulations and international supply chain logistics.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Materials Manager, Senior Materials Manager, Director of Materials, Materials Director, Supply Chain Manager, Procurement Manager, Inventory Manager, Logistics Manager, Production Planning Manager, Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Raw Materials Manager, Strategic Sourcing Manager, Vendor Relationship Manager, Materials Planning Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.