Materials Manager | Whitehall, MI

Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000 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 Whitehall 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 collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Whitehall region seeking Materials Managers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, procurement, storage, and distribution of materials.
• Develop and implement inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
• Lead and mentor a team of materials planners, buyers, and warehouse personnel.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms and ensure on-time delivery.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and quality departments to support manufacturing operations.
• Analyze material usage and forecast demand to prevent shortages and excesses.
• Implement and maintain robust material tracking systems and processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in material handling and logistics.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in materials management, inventory control, or logistics within a manufacturing environment
• Proven ability to implement and manage ERP/MRP systems
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and inventory optimization techniques
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills
• APICS CPIM or CSCP certification preferred

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for materials management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a high-performing team.
• Certification in supply chain management (e.g., CSCP, CPIM).
• Familiarity with advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Materials Manager, Materials Director, Supply Chain Manager, Inventory Manager, Procurement Manager, Logistics Manager, Operations Manager, Production Manager, Materials Planning Manager, Strategic Sourcing 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.