Supply Chain Manager, Purchasing and Materials

Title: Supply Chain Manager, Purchasing & Materials

Location: Kansas City, KS

Overview

A well‑established U.S.-based manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Purchasing and Materials Manager to lead planning activities at a high‑volume production facility. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring material availability, supplier performance, inventory optimization, and team development within a structured manufacturing environment.

The position blends hands‑on operational execution with strategic oversight, supporting production continuity and continuous improvement across the supply chain.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead purchasing and material planning functions to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
• Develop and execute material strategies aligned to production schedules, inventory targets, and supplier capabilities.
• Partner with sourcing, operations, and quality teams to strengthen supplier performance and supply continuity.
• Proactively identify and escalate supply risks, delivery constraints, and quality issues.
• Track, analyze, and report supply chain performance using defined KPIs.
• Support sourcing initiatives, cost‑reduction projects, and supplier development programs.
• Ensure purchasing data, supplier records, pricing, and terms are accurately maintained in ERP systems.
• Resolve discrepancies related to receipts, invoicing, and inventory transactions.
• Champion process improvements across purchasing and planning workflows.

Leadership & Operational Focus

• Manage, coach, and develop a team of purchasing and planning professionals.
• Establish standardized buying and planning practices and ensure consistent execution.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to improve material flow, utilization, and inventory performance.
• Contribute subject‑matter expertise in planning, buying, and inventory control methodologies.
• Lead supplier performance reviews and facilitate corrective actions when necessary.

Physical & Work Environment Expectations

• Prolonged periods of desk‑based computer work.
• Regular use of keyboards and standard office equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift materials up to 25 lbs.
• Fine motor skills required for administrative and system‑based tasks.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing‑based purchasing or supply chain roles.
• 2+ years of people leadership experience, or demonstrated success leading cross‑functional supply chain initiatives.
• Commodities procurement experience required; metals or raw materials experience strongly preferred.
• Proven experience developing and executing sourcing or supplier strategies in complex environments.
• Strong background in ERP‑driven planning and purchasing systems.
• Demonstrated success driving internal and external continuous improvement efforts.
• Experience with inventory segmentation (e.g., ABC classification) and scheduling practices.